ADHD Coaching for Students

 

Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder presents a unique set of challenges for students at each phase of their educational career. 

In elementary school, the inability to focus, plan, and organize can keep students from building the foundation necessary to succeed in later years.  Sitting still and avoiding distractions can be extremely difficult. 

In high school, the complexity of changing classes and the increased workload often cause ADHD symptoms that were once manageable to become unbearable.

In college, greater independence, less structure, and higher expectations can mean that what worked in high school is no longer effective.  Parents aren't there to provide reminders and structure.  It's completely up to the student to get enough sleep, get to class on time, do laundry, eat healthy foods, study, and write all those term papers - without anyone checking an outline or rough draft. 

Coaching can help.  

Coaching will help you better understand the specific issues that are keeping you from excelling in school and in life.  You will develop the strategies, skills, and habits you need to overcome them, and discover how to use your unique strengths to your best advantage.

Some of the issues that students typically work on in coaching include:

• Getting homework done, and handed in, on time

• Managing long term assignments

• Getting started on more difficult assignments

• Getting and staying organized

• Getting up and out of the house on time

• Setting priorities

• Setting daily, weekly, and longer term goals

• Advocating for yourself

It's not all about school, though.  Coaching can bring improvements in other areas as well:

• Social situations

• Family dynamics

• Personal accountability

• Becoming aware of self defeating behaviors

• Identifying and building on strengths

Coaching for younger children is usually done with the parents - with or without the child being present.  Issues addressed with this age group often include:

• Understanding ADHD and what it really means

• Creating a good study environment

• Improving classroom behavior

• Keeping rooms, backpacks, and desks reasonably neat

• Remembering to take medications

Coaching is a student-driven process.  Your needs determine the direction, and you set the agenda for each session.  The coach provides proven techniques, structure, accountability, and support.

In order for coaching to be effective, the student must want to be coached.  He or she must have a strong desire to change, and be willing to work hard.  Maturity and responsibility are absolute requirements.  Parents, not sure if your child is ready?  Beth will help you make this determination during a free initial consultation.  Contact her at (717)441-4354 or beth@adhdsolutions.net to schedule an appointment.

For more information on ADHD Coaching in general, click here.