Make the next step easier

Start here: choose one next step.

When the morning stalls, pause the list of reminders. Name the next thing to do and stay nearby if help is needed: “Shoes on. I’ll help with the laces.” You can offer practical support while you work out what is difficult; an assessment does not have to come first.¹

Does this sound familiar?

These moments can happen for many reasons, including tiredness or worry. They do not, by themselves, identify ADHD.¹

• A half-finished drawing takes over when it is time to leave.
• The bag is ready, but the water bottle disappears every morning.
• A whole page of homework is there; the first question never starts.
• A thought comes out before someone else has finished speaking.

Try this

Give one instruction, then leave space

Keep it short and calm. A visible reminder can hold the next step without another speech. If your child is stuck, check what help they need instead of repeating louder.¹

Say it like this: “The bottle goes in this pocket. Shall we find it together?”

Make the surroundings do some work

Choose one easy-to-reach home for a frequently lost thing. Work it out with your child, and put away distractions for the task they are doing. Start small enough to keep using it.²

Say it like this: “Where should the folder wait so we can find it tomorrow?”

Break the task before frustration takes over

Agree a manageable piece and a break. Adjust it to this child and this day; finishing a whole worksheet is not the only useful sign of progress.²

Say it like this: “Let’s look at the first question. Then we can pause.”

Why this can help

ADHD can affect attention, activity and impulse control.¹ A clear cue and smaller task reduce what a child has to keep track of at once. They are supports, not a cure or a test of effort. Ask school what helps there, and share what you notice at home.³