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Use the Pomodoro Technique to keep your ADD / ADHD homeschooler on track

Anyone studying at home knows that it can be difficult to keep kids focused on their work. There are many distractions that can divert you or your child, and this is particularly difficult for children with ADD / ADHD.

If you have a child with ADD or ADHD, you are probably constantly looking for solutions. The schedule seems to be the biggest challenge for many homeschooling mothers. The Pomodoro Technique may be just what you and your child need to get things done.

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is actually from a book on time management. Delve into how we perceive time and how to change our habits and thought processes to make better use of our time.

If you are thinking of using this technique, you should definitely get the book and read it all so that you fully understand all the fundamentals that cannot be condensed in this article. But the part that can really benefit your child’s homeschooling is the timer technique that the book focuses on.

How the Pomodoro Technique Works

The first thing to do is find a digital timer that your child can easily use. Obviously, this will vary based on your child and their age. Everything from clocks to kitchen timers works fine, but portable timers are the best as they can be used anywhere.

When you start using the Pomodoro Technique, sit down with your child and make a list of what you need to accomplish. Do this the night before or first thing in the morning.

For each item in the list, set the timer to 25 minutes. Have your child work on the article for 25 minutes, and when the timer goes off, let him rest. The recommended rest time is 5 minutes, but some people take a 10-minute break. Regardless of the time period you choose, make sure your child sticks to it.

After the pause is over, they reset the timer for 25 minutes and continue with the previous item on the list if it was not finished, or start with the next.

Give them something to look forward to

This method can be very effective for anyone, but for a homeschooling child with ADD or ADHD, it can really be a breath of fresh air. The child can work on his projects with a better attitude, because he knows that there is a finite time before he can do something he wants to do. Kids with ADD / ADHD can really get bogged down if they don’t know how long a project is going to take and feel like they’re stuck there until it’s done. When they know there is a countdown timer, and then they will be allowed to do something fun, they can be better applied. There is light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak.

Make sure the reward is set in advance, especially when you start using this method. It can be reading, drawing, going out and playing, or whatever you and your child decide. Keep in mind that for kids with ADHD, physical activity during breaks can help them focus even better.

Try the Pomodoro Technique for a week and see how your child is doing. It may be just the right amount of structure and flexibility they need, and you might even find yourself doing more things too.

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