Living with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) in young kids can present some unique challenges for both parents and little ones. As a parent of a child with ADHD, I’ve had to learn quickly the importance of finding ways to help my child stay on track educationally and in maintaining daily chores/tasks. Among the many tools we’ve tried, one stands out as our greatest ally: the timer!
Understanding ADHD In Young Kids
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. While it is normal for kids to be energetic and sometimes have trouble focusing, the little ones with ADHD experience these things to a greater degree and that can sometimes interfere with their daily and academic performance.
ADHD does not present itself the same in all kids. My kid is not hyperactive, but has a hard time keeping focus on things that are not really what they want to be doing. If they happen to be doing something that actually interests them, the hyperfocus is insane! ADHD is not a lack of attention, its more about not being able to control where their attention goes.
If you would like some more information, please visit the CDC which can provide more comprehensive information on ADHD, CDC ADHD Information.
Like a lot of parents of children with ADHD, my husband and I faced challenges in helping our child manage what was going on. From struggling to keep focus on schoolwork to impulsively giving a response or interrupting a conversation that my little human wasn’t even involved in. It can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, but we were determined to help find solutions that would support our child’s development and quality of life.
The Power Of The Timer
One of the most effective tools we found (after trying a few) was a simple timer. Whether we used the kitchen timer or an app on our phones, setting a timer has become big part of the daily routine. This is how we used it to support our child:
- Time Management: Kids with ADHD struggle with time management and moving between tasks or responsibilities. By setting the timer for a specific task (for example: homework, shower, breaks) it helps our child understand how much time is left to complete the task at hand and focus until the timer goes off.
- Brain Breaks: Breaks are so important for kids with ADHD. They’re quick, structured breaks with some physical movement or sensory activity. You can try stretching to give your child a chance to get up and move or maybe a relaxing break with some deep breaths that can settle their minds and maybe shift focus to another task.
- Visual Signals: Many kids with ADHD are visual learners and respond well to visual cues. A timer allows a child to see the time passing, and manage expectations of what they can do in the time left.
- Accountability: By allowing our child to set the timer and be involved in discussing the goals needed to be achieved in that time frame, it gave our kid the power to own their time and action. The timer is there as a reminder to stay on track and achieve the goals set.
Tips For Using Your Timer
If you’re considering using a timer to support your ADHD kiddo, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Start with short intervals of focus time and gradually build up the duration. For us, we started off with 10 minutes of focus time and then a 5 minute brain break.
- Choose a timer that works for your child! We used the one on our phones and that did not help at all. We ended up purchasing one in a fun color that had big numbers so it was easier and more fun to look at. Also, it had a kick stand so it was able to stand in front of their spot on the table.
- Consistency is key! Be consistent in using your timer for different activities and help establish a routine.
- Encourage your child to participate in setting the timer and planning the tasks that need to be completed with you and use it as a moment to bond and connect with your little one. You help build them up and gain confidence while being present in the moment.
While living with ADHD can have its challenges, its important to remember that each child is different and what has worked for my child may not work for another. As parents, we play a big role in their lives and in understanding their needs and helping them find ways to thrive! In our case, the timer has made a huge difference in helping us help our child navigate the day and life with confidence!
I encourage parents of ADHD children to explore different tools and techniques and celebrate the small victories along the way. Don’t treat it like a task. Don’t dread it. Together, you will create a supportive environment where your child can have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential…. one timer tick at a time!
I hope you find some useful information in this post. When our child was first diagnosed with ADHD, we searched everywhere possible for ways to help build up confidence and understanding in this new challenge/adventure that we were about to embark on. I also made a promise to my ADHD baby to not reveal which one is the one that was diagnosed, which is why this is a gender neutral post. Please feel free to reach out or comment if you have any questions!
If you would like to see the timer that worked best for my little one, please click here.
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