The Homework System We Swear By

Navigating homework with your child who has ADHD or executive functioning challenges can be a real struggle. To help streamline a process and support your child effectively, use the following tips as a checklist. Reflect on which strategies you’re already using and identify areas for improvement.  We hope that this approach will help you create a more effective and stress-free homework routine:

Get Teachers On Board

Ensure teachers post and review assignments daily. Have them help your child keep track and sign off on their planner to keep everything organized.

Set Up a Home Routine

Choose a consistent time for homework right after school. Give your child a snack and a quick break before diving into their tasks.

Designate a Homework Spot

Create a quiet, distraction-free zone with good lighting for homework. Test different environments to find what helps your child focus best—whether it’s silence or soft white noise.

Use a Reminder System & Pre-Determine Consequences 

Engage your child in establishing a set number of reminders to prompt them to start their homework—three is a good starting point if you’re unsure. Adhere to this predetermined number without deviation. For example, if your child becomes distracted, gently redirect them with a prompt such as, “You’re currently on your second reminder.” After issuing the final reminder, say something like, “You have two minutes left before it’s homework time. This is the last reminder I’ll give you, so please start focusing on your task.”

Once the final reminder has been given, if your child has still not started their homework, transition to a predesignated consequence without offering further reminders or additional opportunities. This approach prevents repetitive nagging and encourages your child to recognize and act on their own need for focus. By consistently following through with agreed-upon consequences, you help your child build self-discipline and understand the importance of timely task initiation.

Be Your Child’s Coach

Review their planner with them before AND after homework. Help them prioritize the tasks they have for homework, set times, and review completed assignments.  

Help Them Get Started

Kick off each task by reading and discussing the instructions. Highlight key points and guide them through the first steps before letting them work independently.

Use a Timer

Employ timers to manage work sessions and breaks. Start with short intervals and adjust based on how well your child is focusing.

Take Breaks and Refocus

Encourage brief physical breaks after 20 minutes of work to boost alertness. A quick movement break can help reset focus.

Praise Effort

Offer specific praise for completed tasks and hard work. Highlight their effort and progress to keep motivation high.

Create a Home for Completed Homework

Set up a “school staging center” with a homework folder. Ensure finished work goes straight into the folder and then into the backpack.

Get Everyone on Board With the Sunday Setup

Organization becomes effective only through regular practice. Set aside 20 minutes every Sunday evening for your child to organize their binder. Extend this habit to sorting through work bags or tidying up those messy drawers. By integrating these practices into your routine, everyone maintains a clutter-free environment, and your child develops a lasting habit of keeping their school materials in order.

Identify and Communicate Problems Early 

Identify any issues causing homework struggles. Discuss concerns with your ed therapist and teachers.

Now that you’ve reviewed the checklist, take a moment to assess how many of these strategies you’re currently implementing. Which areas are working well for you and your child, and where might there be room for improvement?