When you have an easily distracted child, homeschooling may seem impossible. Here are some great tips for teaching a distracted child that will make homeschooling go smoothly!

Also if you have a child with ADHD be sure that you also check out this post here. 

1. Set a clear set of expectations and a daily routine for your child. When your child knows what to expect, it makes it easier to pay attention and work through the required amount of schoolwork for the day. Creating a visual checklist – one with pictures for younger children – can also be helpful.
2. Keep your lessons short. Think 20 minutes for a lesson with independent work and less than an hour for instruction from the parent in different subjects. Also, work during the time of day when your child is most attentive.
3. Provide your child with sensory breaks. Doing schoolwork and learning new material is mentally taxing, so allow your child a break every so often. That might mean running around outside, playing in her room, or maybe playing on the computer.
4. Provide your child with a space to work that is free from visual and audible distraction. Posters, clutter, toys on the table, and noise from the television or other siblings can cause the easily distractible child to not focus on a lesson. This might mean a room divider, or maybe even a special tent you set up in his room to do schoolwork on the floor.
5. Let your child move around, play with quiet toys, or otherwise fidget while you teach or read aloud. You might be surprised at the amount of information she retains as she runs around the room and you read a lesson or story out loud. Also let your child sit, lounge or lay where it is comfortable for him to do his work. Sitting at a designated table or desk every day for the entire school day can be tedious. Consider teaching outside when possible. Let your child jump on the trampoline and spell out words or review math facts.
6. Consider investing in a sensory tool, such as an exercise ball or a balancing disc. There are also vibrating therapy pillows to help children concentrate. Additionally a body sock can help your child focus while sitting. Your child may need a few of these types of tools as one may not work for every situation in which she is distracted.

Teaching a distracted child is not impossible! You can do this! Do you have a distracted child at home? I would love to hear your own tips and tricks in comments!

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• Tips for homeschooling a child with ADHD