How to Help Your Child with Homework

As a parent of a child with ADHD, you’re no stranger to the challenges that come with homework time. Distractions, disorganization, and frustration can make the process overwhelming for both you and your child. However, with the right strategies and a supportive approach, you can transform homework time into a more manageable and productive experience.

In this blog, we will explore practical tips on how to help your child with ADHD succeed in their homework assignments.

1. Create a Consistent Homework Routine

One of the most effective ways to support your child with ADHD is to establish a consistent homework routine. Set aside a specific time each day for homework and stick to it. Consistency helps your child know what to expect, making the transition into homework mode smoother.

2. Designate a Distraction-Free Workspace

Create a homework environment that minimizes distractions. Choose a quiet, clutter-free space with good lighting. Remove electronic devices, TV, and other potential distractions to help your child stay focused.

3. Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks

Homework assignments can sometimes feel overwhelming for children with ADHD. Break down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. Provide clear instructions and use a timer to encourage your child to work on one part of the assignment at a time.

4. Use Visual Aids and Timers

Visual aids, like charts and schedules, can be incredibly helpful for children with ADHD. Timers can also be beneficial for time management. Encourage your child to set a timer for work periods and short breaks, helping them stay on track and maintain focus.

5. Be a Homework Partner, Not a Director

While it’s essential to offer guidance and support, avoid taking over your child’s homework. Be a partner, not a director. Ask open-ended questions, provide encouragement, and offer suggestions rather than doing the work for them. This approach fosters independence and problem-solving skills.

6. Positive Reinforcement

Acknowledge your child’s efforts and successes during homework time. Positive reinforcement, such as praise or small rewards, can motivate them to stay engaged and complete tasks.

You can learn more about positive parenting in this blog: 5 Criteria for Positive Parenting.

7. Communicate with Teachers

Maintain open communication with your child’s teachers. They can provide insights into your child’s strengths and weaknesses and may be able to offer additional support or accommodations in the classroom.

8. Break Up Work Periods with Physical Activity

Physical activity can help children with ADHD release pent-up energy and enhance their focus. Encourage short breaks for physical movement between work periods.

9. Teach Organizational Skills

Children with ADHD often struggle with organization. Teach your child strategies for staying organized, such as using a planner, setting priorities, and creating to-do lists.

10. Encourage Homework Independence

As your child matures, encourage them to take more responsibility for their homework. Gradually decrease your involvement and guide them towards becoming a self-sufficient learner.

Need Help Managing ADHD?

Helping your child with ADHD succeed in homework is a collaborative effort. By establishing a consistent routine, creating a conducive workspace, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, using visual aids and timers, and fostering independence, you can make homework time less daunting and more productive. Remember to maintain open communication with teachers, offer positive reinforcement, and be patient and understanding as your child develops valuable skills for success. With your support, your child can overcome the challenges of ADHD and thrive academically.

If you’re seeking additional guidance and support in managing your child’s ADHD, our team at NextStep4ADHD is here to help. We offer personalized solutions and comprehensive strategies to empower your child’s learning journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out for an ADHD consultation and discover how we can make a positive impact on your child’s education. Click here to schedule an appointment with us today to explore the possibilities of a brighter academic future for your child.

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Quiz: Are You a Meal Prepper? Discover the ADHD Benefits

Meal prepping can be a game-changer, especially for those with ADHD. It’s not just about organizing your meals; it’s about improving focus, managing impulsivity, and setting yourself up for success.

Take this quiz to find out if you’re a meal prepper and learn about the incredible benefits it offers for individuals with ADHD.

Quiz Time: Are You a Meal Prepper?

1. Do you plan your meals in advance, at least a few days ahead?

• Always
• Sometimes
• Rarely
• Never

2. How often do you cook multiple servings of a dish to eat throughout the week?

• Every week
• Once in a while
• Rarely
• Never

3. How do you feel about grocery shopping?

• Excited, I love it!
• Neutral, it’s okay.
• Overwhelmed, but I manage.
• It’s a struggle.

4. What’s your reaction when you’re hungry but don’t have a meal ready?

• No worries, I have a stash of prepped meals.
• I’ll figure something out quickly.
• I might grab unhealthy snacks.
• Panic mode – it’s chaos!

5. How much time do you spend on meal preparation each week?

• About an hour a day
• A few hours on the weekend
• Whenever I find time
• I play it by ear

Results:

If you answered mostly:

• A’s: Congratulations, you’re a meal prepper pro! You understand the value of planning ahead and have likely experienced the benefits it brings.
• B’s: You’re on the right track! You might not meal prep consistently, but you’re aware of its advantages.
• C’s: Meal prepping isn’t your strong suit, but you’re open to exploring its potential benefits.
• D’s: Meal prepping could be a game-changer for you. Consider the positive impact it could have on managing ADHD symptoms.

The ADHD Benefits of Meal Prepping

1. Improved Focus:

Meal prepping reduces decision fatigue by eliminating the need to figure out what to eat each time you’re hungry. This helps conserve mental energy, allowing you to stay focused on important tasks.

2. Reduced Impulsivity:

Having prepped meals on hand helps prevent impulsive food choices, which can be common for individuals with ADHD. You’re less likely to grab unhealthy snacks or opt for fast food when you already have nutritious meals ready to go.

3. Time and Energy Savings:

Meal prepping might seem time-consuming upfront, but it saves time and effort throughout the week. You’ll spend less time cooking on a daily basis, giving you more room for other activities.

4. Consistent Nutrition:

People with ADHD often struggle with maintaining consistent eating patterns. Meal prepping ensures that you have balanced meals available, which can positively impact your overall well-being.

5. Stress Reduction:

The peace of mind that comes with knowing you have meals ready can significantly reduce stress. You won’t have to worry about last-minute food arrangements.

Recap

Meal prepping isn’t just for fitness enthusiasts; it’s a powerful tool for staying organized and ensuring you maintain a balanced diet. By taking the quiz and considering the benefits, you’ve taken the first step toward incorporating this strategy into your routine. Give meal prepping a try and experience the positive impact it can have on your focus, impulsivity, and daily productivity. Your journey to better ADHD management starts in the kitchen!

Need Help Managing ADHD?

Do you need help with time management or other organizational strategies? Whether you need ADHD coaching or therapy, our multidisciplinary team has everything you need under one roof. To get started, request an appointment today.

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Back-to-School Routines for Parents: Navigating the JCPS Bus System and Work Schedules

As the summer days wind down, it’s time for parents and children to prepare for the back-to-school season. For families with children attending schools that follow different schedules within the JCPS bus system, creating a smooth and organized routine can be a real challenge. Factor in the complexities of juggling work schedules and it can become overwhelming. However, fear not! 

In this blog, we’ll provide practical tips on how parents can handle the logistics, from making lunches the night before to efficiently using the carpool lane.

Sync Schedules and Prioritize Communication

With JCPS schools starting at different times, the first step is to ensure you have a clear understanding of your child’s schedule. Sync it with your work schedule and identify any potential overlaps or gaps. Prioritize open communication with your employer about your responsibilities as a parent. Many companies are understanding of parental obligations and may offer flexible arrangements during the back-to-school period.

Create a Master Family Calendar

Having a master calendar with all family members’ schedules can be a lifesaver. Include school start times, bus pickup and drop-off schedules, work shifts, extracurricular activities, and any other important appointments. Color-code entries for each family member to quickly spot potential conflicts and plan accordingly.

Make Lunch the Night Before

Mornings can be chaotic, especially when trying to get everyone out the door on time. Simplify the process by making lunches the night before. Involve your children in packing their lunch, ensuring they have a balanced and nutritious meal to keep them energized throughout the day.

Utilize Carpool Lane and Share Responsibilities

Carpooling can be a game-changer for parents with busy schedules. Coordinate with other families whose children attend the same school to share carpooling responsibilities. By taking turns, everyone can have more flexibility in their work hours while ensuring the kids get to school on time.

Establish a Morning and Evening Routine

Routines are essential for ensuring a smooth morning and evening schedule. Establish a consistent morning routine that includes waking up at the same time, having breakfast together, and allowing enough time for everyone to get ready without feeling rushed. In the evening, encourage your children to organize their school bags and lay out their clothes for the next day.

Prepare for After-School Care

If your work schedule extends beyond school hours, arrange for after-school care for your children. Explore options such as school-affiliated programs, local daycare centers, or trusted caregivers who can pick them up from school and provide a safe and nurturing environment until you return.

Utilize Technology and Apps

Technology can be a valuable tool in managing schedules and staying organized. Use calendar apps, reminder apps, and communication platforms to stay in touch with your child’s school and other parents in the carpool group. These apps can help keep everyone on the same page and quickly adapt to any changes.

Need Help Getting Organized for the New School Year?

ADHD coaching can be a tremendous resource for parents seeking support in adjusting to new back-to-school routines. Parents with ADHD or parenting children with ADHD often face unique challenges in managing time, organization, and impulse control. ADHD coaching provides personalized strategies and tools to help parents develop effective routines and coping mechanisms.

Here at NextStep4ADHD, we work with parents to identify their specific challenges and strengths, then tailor a plan that fits their individual needs. They can assist in breaking down overwhelming tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, making it easier for parents to follow through with their routines.

Additionally, as a certified ADHD coach, Pam Valdes can help parents set realistic goals and priorities, keeping them focused and on track amidst the busy back-to-school chaos.

ADHD coaching can also offer valuable support in communication and collaboration with school personnel. Coaches can help parents advocate for their child’s needs, ensure that teachers are aware of any accommodations required, and foster open lines of communication between parents and educators.

ADHD coaching can teach parents mindfulness techniques and stress management strategies, aiding them in maintaining their own well-being during this hectic period. By addressing their own needs and stress levels, parents can better support their children as they transition into the new school year.

Start the Year Off Right!

As the school year begins, establishing routines and streamlining logistics are vital for parents navigating the JCPS bus system and work schedules. With effective communication, careful planning, and a touch of creativity, you can ensure your children have a successful start to the school year while balancing your work responsibilities. Embrace the opportunities for teamwork with other parents, make use of technology, and most importantly, be flexible to adjust your routines as needed. Here’s to a fantastic back-to-school season for both parents and students alike!

Need to make an appointment? Click here!

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Are You a Procrastinator? [Quiz]

Nearly everyone procrastinates at some point.

For those living with ADHD, patterns of procrastination can be persistent and pervasive over time and create significant difficulties in school, career, and life at home.

If you have ADHD, identifying your own patterns of procrastination and learning to manage it can be a vital component of comprehensive treatment.  

The Connection Between ADHD and Procrastination

Procrastination can occur in persons without ADHD, and isolated procrastination is NOT diagnostic of ADHD.   

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect a person’s ability to regulate attention, manage time, and organize tasks effectively.  The symptoms present in childhood and/or adolescence and may persist into adulthood. Procrastination is a very common symptom of ADHD and emerges from underlying difficulties with initiating tasks, sustaining focus, and managing priorities.

Persons with ADHD who gain insight into their procrastination patterns and seek appropriate support can experience significant improvements in this area.

NextStep4ADHD offers holistic and multidisciplinary care, specifically tailored to individuals with ADHD, to provide comprehensive strategies and skills for managing procrastination and improving overall productivity.

Quiz: Are You a Procrastinator?

Instructions: Answer each question honestly by selecting the option that best describes your behavior or preferences. At the end of the quiz, your score will help determine if you tend to procrastinate a lot, a little, or not at all. Remember, this quiz is just a self-assessment and not a clinical diagnosis. If you feel you may benefit from support, consider seeking holistic and multidisciplinary care at NextStep4ADHD to learn skills to manage procrastination effectively.

1. When faced with a task or assignment, how often do you find yourself delaying getting started?
   • a) Almost always
   • b) Sometimes
   • c) Rarely or never
2. How often do you find yourself putting off tasks until the last possible moment?
   • a) All the time
   • b) Occasionally
   • c) Hardly ever
3. When given a deadline, how often do you end up finishing the task just in time or even late?
   • a) Consistently
   • b) Occasionally
   • c) Rarely or never
4. How frequently do you catch yourself engaging in non-essential activities to avoid starting important tasks?
   • a) Most of the time
   • b) Occasionally
   • c) Rarely or never
5. When you have a long-term project or assignment, how often do you struggle with breaking it down into manageable tasks?
   • a) Always
   • b) Sometimes
   • c) Rarely or never
6. How frequently do you find yourself making excuses or justifications for delaying tasks?
   • a) Very often
   • b) Occasionally
   • c) Rarely or never
7. When faced with a challenging or complex task, how likely are you to procrastinate even more?
   • a) Highly likely
   • b) Occasionally likely
   • c) Not likely
8. How often do you feel overwhelmed by the number of tasks on your to-do list, leading to avoidance or delay?
   • a) Frequently
   • b) Occasionally
   • c) Rarely or never
9. How often do you find yourself underestimating the time required to complete a task, resulting in last-minute rushes?
   • a) Most of the time
   • b) Occasionally
   • c) Rarely or never
10. How likely are you to prioritize immediate gratification (e.g., leisure activities) over important tasks that require effort and time?
    • a) Very likely
    • b) Sometimes likely
    • c) Not likely

Scoring:

• For questions 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, assign the following points:
  • a) Almost always or most of the time: 3 points
  • b) Sometimes or occasionally: 2 points
  • c) Rarely or never: 1 point
• For question 5, assign the following points:
  • a) Always: 1 point
  • b) Sometimes: 2 points
  • c) Rarely or never: 3 points

Results:

• 10 to 17 points: You exhibit minimal signs of procrastination. Congratulations on managing your tasks effectively!
• 18 to 24 points: You occasionally struggle with procrastination. Consider learning strategies to enhance your productivity and time management skills.
• 25 to 30 points: Procrastination seems to be a significant challenge for you. Seeking holistic and multidisciplinary care at NextStep4ADHD can provide valuable support and tools to manage procrastination effectively.

Remember, this quiz is not a diagnostic tool but serves as a self-assessment. If you’re concerned about your procrastination habits, seeking professional advice can be beneficial for tailored guidance and support.

Get All of Your ADHD Care Under One Roof

ADHD coaching and other multidisciplinary treatments offer invaluable support in overcoming the challenges associated with ADHD. Through personalized coaching sessions, you can gain strategies to enhance time management, improve organizational skills, develop effective task initiation techniques, and cultivate self-awareness.

Additionally, holistic treatments encompass various therapeutic approaches, such as counseling, medication management, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle adjustments, to create a comprehensive and tailored plan for managing ADHD symptoms. By embracing holistic and multidisciplinary care at NextStep4ADHD, you can unlock your potential, thrive in daily life, and achieve greater success.

Take the next step towards managing your ADHD effectively. Contact NextStep4ADHD today to explore the benefits of ADHD coaching and multidisciplinary treatments that will empower you with the skills and support needed to overcome challenges and lead a fulfilling life. Start your journey towards holistic care and discover the transformational possibilities.

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The Procrastivity Dilemma: ADHD and the Struggle to Get Things Done

For individuals with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), the battle against procrastination can be a daily challenge, and sometimes procrastination can open the door to another issue: procrastivity. 

The term “procrastivity” captures the unique struggle faced by those with ADHD—an intersection between procrastination and productivity. Procrastivity is when we put off doing something that we should be doing in favor of another task that, while productive, is usually easier, more interesting, or quicker. We’re being productive, but we are really trying to avoid another task. 

It can feel like a constant tug-of-war between the desire to accomplish tasks and the difficulty in initiating or maintaining focus. 

In this blog post, we will explore the procrastivity dilemma faced by individuals with ADHD and discuss strategies to enhance productivity and overcome the barriers.

Understanding the Procrastivity Dilemma

Procrastivity arises from the complex nature of ADHD, characterized by difficulties with attention, organization, and impulse control. The combination of distractibility, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity can lead to a pattern of delaying tasks and struggling to stay on track. The desire to be productive is often overshadowed by the challenges of initiating tasks, sustaining effort, and maintaining focus. This can create frustration, stress, and a sense of underachievement.

Strategies for Overcoming Procrastivity

Embrace Structure and Organization:

Establishing a structured routine and organizing your environment can provide a solid foundation for combating procrastivity. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and create a schedule or to-do list. Prioritize tasks and allocate specific time slots for each activity. Use visual cues, such as calendars, reminders, and timers, to help you stay on track. By creating structure, you can mitigate distractions and provide a framework that supports focus and productivity.

Implement Time Management Techniques:

Time management techniques are essential for individuals with ADHD to effectively utilize their time and combat procrastivity. One such technique is the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working in focused bursts of 25 minutes, followed by short breaks. This method can help maintain attention and prevent burnout. Another technique is setting specific deadlines for tasks, including self-imposed deadlines if external ones are absent. Breaking tasks down into smaller, time-bound segments can make them feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Leverage External Support:

Seeking external support is crucial in overcoming procrastivity. Informing family, friends, or coworkers about your challenges can help create a supportive environment. Consider utilizing accountability partners who can check in on your progress and offer encouragement. 

Professional assistance, such as therapy or coaching, can provide valuable strategies and guidance tailored to managing ADHD-related difficulties. They can help you navigate challenges, identify coping mechanisms, and develop effective strategies to enhance productivity.

Practice Self-Care:

Self-care plays a vital role in managing ADHD and combating procrastivity. Ensure you are getting adequate rest, engaging in regular physical exercise, and maintaining a balanced diet. Prioritize activities that reduce stress and promote relaxation, such as mindfulness, meditation, or hobbies that bring joy. Taking care of your overall well-being enhances focus, resilience, and productivity.

Celebrate Progress:

Recognize and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement can boost motivation and self-confidence. Rather than dwelling on perceived failures or setbacks, focus on progress and learning from experiences. Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion throughout the journey of managing ADHD and overcoming procrastivity.

Remember, overcoming procrastivity takes time and effort. Experiment with different strategies to discover what works best for you. Be patient and persistent in your pursuit of productivity. By understanding the procrastivity dilemma and implementing effective strategies, individuals with ADHD can navigate the challenges and unlock their full potential, achieving their goals and aspirations.

Recognize the Positive Side of Procrastivity

Procrastivity, despite its negative connotation, can actually have some positive aspects. It allows individuals to acknowledge their accomplishments and view them as progress. By focusing on what has been achieved, even if it’s just one task or small step, momentum can be built, making it easier to tackle more challenging hurdles.

Moreover, analyzing the tasks that were easier to start can provide valuable insights. Asking questions like, “What made it easier for me to start this task?” allows for the identification of strategies that can be applied to other tasks. By understanding the factors that contribute to a successful start, individuals can create an environment that facilitates initiating tasks.

Additionally, treating simpler tasks as warm-up activities can be empowering. Deliberately choosing to start with these tasks helps build momentum and confidence. It serves as a way to ease into more demanding responsibilities and sets the tone for a productive work session.

Remember, it’s essential to celebrate even the small wins. Recognizing progress and adopting a positive mindset can fuel motivation and drive. By appreciating the achievements, individuals can maintain momentum and approach future challenges with greater confidence and determination. So, don’t underestimate the power of procrastivity and leverage it as a tool for personal growth and productivity.

Pinpoint the Root Cause of Procrastination

While there can be positives associated with procrastivity, it’s important to identify the root cause of the procrastination and troubleshoot for those hurdles. Pam Valdes, M.A., AACC, always uses the “Big 3” root causes of & strategies for reducing procrastination. 

• Overwhelm
• Dislike
• Fear

The Big 3 have one thing in common: Avoidance of emotional discomfort. After all, who likes to feel overwhelmed, bored, or scared? But here’s the trick: Naming the discomfort tends to dissolve a lot of its power. Take a moment to figure out what’s really stopping you from getting started on that task. You may have to dig a little to figure it out.”

Pam Valdes, M.A., AACC

Comprehensive ADHD treatment, including therapy and coaching, helps you strengthen your skillset and overcome challenges. Our multidisciplinary team can help you learn to THRIVE. You can also request an appointment here.

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Living with ADHD: Finding Humor in the Small Moments

Living with ADHD Series #1

Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be a challenging experience, but finding humor in some of the moments can help to lighten the load. Although ADHD can have serious effects, finding a lighthearted side can be a powerful tool for coping.

Sharing Stories

One way to find humor in ADHD moments is by sharing stories and jokes with others who have ADHD. For instance, forgetting the topic of a conversation you just initiated, or setting an alarm and forgetting why you set it in the first place. Laughing at these moments helps to create a positive environment where ADHD is not a negative aspect but simply a unique part of your personality.

Laughing WITH Your Loved Ones

Another way to find humor in ADHD moments is by learning to love someone with ADHD and laughing WITH them. Finding humor in the unexpected can help you bond with your partner and create a more resilient relationship. For example, someone with ADHD might forget to buy groceries but remember every detail of a movie seen years ago.

Laughing with them about these quirks can help create a positive and supportive environment.

Finding Humor in Small Moments

Here are some additional examples of finding humor in ADHD moments:

• Forgetting your phone in your pocket and frantically searching for it while it’s ringing.
• Starting to do something and getting sidetracked by something else entirely.
• Forgetting where you put something, only to find it in a bizarre location like the freezer or under the couch cushions.

You’re Not Alone

Chalene Johnson — a popular Beach Body coach — has now shifted her public spotlight onto ADHD awareness. She has since left the fitness world to turn her attention to health – and that includes mental health. In her blog and on her social media channels, she frequently shares her own personal experiences and stories to shed light on the humorous moments of living with ADHD. The takeaway is that you’re not alone!

While these moments can be frustrating, finding humor in them can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also create an environment where those with ADHD are appreciated for their unique quirks and qualities.

In conclusion, finding humor in ADHD moments can be an effective way to cope with the challenges of living with the disorder. By sharing stories and jokes with others who have ADHD, and learning to laugh WITH your loved ones who have ADHD, you can build a positive environment that embraces your differences. By finding the humor in these moments, you can create a more resilient and supportive community that celebrates the unique qualities of each individual.

The Importance of Holistic ADHD Care

While finding humor in ADHD moments can be beneficial, it’s essential to recognize that professional help can still be crucial for managing the condition. ADHD can have serious effects that may require medical intervention, such as therapy or in some cases, medication.

Seeking professional help can help to mitigate some of the more severe symptoms of ADHD and improve overall quality of life. It’s important to remember that finding humor in moments of forgetfulness or disorganization does not negate the need for professional support. Instead, finding a balance between humor and professional help can help individuals with ADHD lead fulfilling and successful lives.

Comprehensive ADHD treatment, including therapy and coaching, can help you overcome obstacles while you learn to THRIVE. You can also request an appointment here.

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Assessments Versus Psychology Evaluation: Everything You Need to Know

Assessments and psychology evaluations may sound like the same thing, but they’re actually different. It’s important to know the difference, especially if you’re seeking psychological help. In this blog, we’ll explain what assessments and psychology evaluations are, what they’re used for, and what you can expect during each evaluation.

We spoke with Monica Clark, a Psychological Associate here at NextStep4ADHD, to get some of the most common questions. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect during your psychological evaluation and which type of evaluation is right for you.

What Is the Difference between an Assessment and a Psychological Evaluation?

All about Assessments

An assessment involves an in-depth clinical interview, usually utilizing both a diagnostic assessment and biopsychosocial questions, and, sometimes, simple screening instruments that are self-report symptom questionnaires. The questionnaires usually can be completed in just a few minutes and, for teens, may include obtaining data from relevant teachers or other collateral adults with regular contact with the child.

The diagnostic interview focuses on the presenting issues and the history of those issues and in-depth questioning of symptoms to determine potential diagnoses. In addition to the diagnostic interview, the assessor will accumulate information about the child’s medical, developmental, and family history (biology), history of prior treatment and testing, to include documenting any prior diagnoses (psychological history), and the child’s school functioning, social functioning, and any potential work/employment functioning (social). An assessment is usually between 60-90 minutes depending on the provider. An assessment is adequate for most situations, including obtaining a diagnosis for treatment and obtaining a 504 plan at school.

An assessment is simpler and much more cost effective than a full psychological evaluation.

All about Psychological Evaluations

A psychological evaluation is more in-depth and includes the above clinical interview, along with testing using standardized psychological instruments (i.e. intelligence tests). The testing gives an in-depth understanding of a child’s cognitive, academic, behavioral, emotional, and social functioning. It usually takes a minimum of 4 hours, which can be completed in either one or two sessions; however, it can take longer depending on needs.

There is a specific type of psychological evaluation, called an academic evaluation, that may be requested for school, which tests only a child’s intelligence and academic performance to test for learning disabilities or learning differences. This specific type of assessment is shorter, usually 2-3 hours, but is not typically covered by insurance. If schools are requesting this information, while Next Step would be happy to complete the evaluation, if the child attends public schools, most public schools have the ability to complete this type of evaluation without charge to the family, utilizing the district’s school psychologist. However, sometimes the wait for an evaluation date can be lengthy, which leads some families to seek outside agencies that could accommodate their need faster.

When Is a Psychological Evaluation Necessary for Teens?

 A psychological evaluation is necessary in a couple of scenarios:

• It is required if the family is seeking an individualized education plan (IEP).
• It also may become necessary if a family has completed an assessment and the diagnostic picture is still unclear. This is rare, but does occasionally occur.
• A family may also be referred for a psychological evaluation to assess for other potential underlying factors, if the child has not been responsive to treatment.

It is important that an established therapist not be the one to complete the psychological evaluation to prevent potential confirmation bias.

What Happens During a Psychological Evaluation?

The first step is a clinical interview with both the child and the parent, followed by 1-2 sessions where the child will meet with the evaluator individually to complete the standardized tests. After, the evaluator will score all of the assessments and write an in-depth report, written so that the family can understand the results. Once the report is completed, the family will be invited back for a feedback session, where the evaluator will go over the results, provide an opportunity for the family to ask questions, and the family will be given a physical copy of the report.

What Is the Main Benefits of a Psychological Evaluation for an IED?

A psychological evaluation provides the most in-depth picture of your child. Through the evaluation process, all potential issues are assessed and addressed through clinical recommendations.

Questions? Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out to Us

In conclusion, understanding the differences between assessments and psychology evaluations is crucial when seeking psychological help, especially for conditions like ADHD. While assessments are standardized tests that provide objective information about your abilities and strengths, psychological evaluations involve a more in-depth exploration of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Both types of evaluations can be helpful in identifying and treating ADHD, but which one is best for you will depend on your specific needs. Our multidisciplinary team can walk you through all of the options and recommend the right evaluations for you or your child.

If you suspect that you or a loved one may have ADHD, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional who can provide the appropriate evaluation and treatment. Making an appointment with a mental health professional is the first step towards getting the help you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and courage, and taking care of your mental health is essential for overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out today.

About Monica Clark

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What Are Social Emotional Skills and How Do You Nurture Them?

Children with ADHD may struggle with social skills, but thankfully, social emotional skills can be developed. This means that there are many ways to continue to nurture these skills at home.

What Are Social Emotional Skills?

Social emotional skills help us connect to others. Social emotional development begins at birth; babies start learning how to connect to others from the very beginning. As babies and children continue to develop these skills, they’ll eventually use this skill set to:

• Manage emotions
• Build healthy relationships
• Feel empathy

Here are three examples of social emotional skills:

• A child recognizes that his friend is sad, and then he asks if they’re ok
• A child learns to express himself differently depending on his audience: friends, teachers, or parents, etc.
• You understand your own thoughts and feelings, and you can use this information to relate to others

Developing social emotional growth takes time. Even though social emotional development starts in infancy, it continues into and throughout adulthood. Early interactions with family, caregivers, and friends have the biggest impacts on development, but every new interaction (whether that’s meeting a new co-worker or raising a child) continues to shape our social emotional growth.

Why Social Emotional Skills Matter

Children with well-developed social-emotional skills are more likely to excel in school — and later in their career. Social-emotional skills help kids in many ways.

ADHD and Social Emotional Skills

Children (and adults for that matter) with ADHD may struggle with social emotional skills. According to a study published in the journal Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, children with poor social emotional skills are more likely to miss school days.

Social emotional skills are developed when children witness the social world – and that includes both online or in person – but how can these skills be further shaped? Here are a few strategies for sharpening your child’s skill set at home:

1. Model the Language

Sometimes talking through things out loud can help model the language that supports social emotional skill growth. Here are a few examples:

• Validate any struggles that your child has and express empathy (e.g., “That must be hard” or “I hear you.”)
• Use reflective listening when your child expresses any social or emotional difficulties (this helps them feel heard)
• Repeat or reiterate what your child says to demonstrate that you understand their feelings accurately (e.g. “I am sad that you feel lonely.”)

You can learn more phrases to use here in this post about growth mindset.

2. Reflect on Social Settings

You can engage your child in conversations about social settings. This includes social settings in TV shows or social settings in online environments too. Your child can continue to grow and develop social skills in online classes and multi-player collaborative video games.

The following questions can promote social emotional growth:

• What’s going on in the class/game/group?
• What are the unspoken rules? How do you know that these are the rules?
• What do you find interesting about this class/game/group?
• What do you know about these people (classmates/other players)?
• Who is in this group/game/class?
• How do you step into other player’s shoes?
• How do you react to other players’ messages and/or behaviors?
• How is everyone else behaving, and how do you compare?

If you’re watching a TV show together, you can ask similar questions and use the show as an opportunity to talk about interpersonal relationships with others.

3. Practice Building Friendships

Making friends is not passive, and the process can be made even more difficult when schools are virtual and social outings aren’t as frequent as they used to be. Making friends requires:

• Meeting someone
• Learning about them (their likes, dislikes, etc.)
• Engaging in small talk
• Engaging in one-on-one activities like playdates

Social distancing has made this process much more difficult. You can help your child practice building friendships through:

Practicing Small Talk

Your child can engage in small talk at the dinner table with family. Small talk is one of the key building blocks of starting a friendship, and it also helps strengthen active listening. In addition to practicing small talk at dinner, you may suggest that your child engages in small talk with other classmates (when appropriate; some virtual classes make use of breakaway groups, which is a good opportunity to practice small talk). You might also suggest that your child calls a cousin or other family member to practice small talk over the phone.

Playing with Puppets

For younger children, playing with puppets can be a great way to work on social emotional skills. Puppet play can introduce your child to emotional words (e.g., happy, angry, sad) while allowing your child a way to talk about and work through problems.

4. Try Thinking Out Loud

Parents can model problem solving and emotional regulation skills by talking through their own problems out loud. For example, you might say out loud: “Oh no! My favorite shoes have a hole in them. I’d better wear a different pair today so my feet don’t get wet from the rain.” This helps to model appropriate ways to deal with frustration.

5. Make Time for Bedtime Stories

Bedtime stories aren’t just for relaxing your child and helping them fall asleep. Reading to your child can enhance his or her vocabulary, improve language skills, and boost emotional regulation. You can help your child develop social emotional skills by talking about the story. Ask:

• What should the character do?
• How do you think this character feels?
• What would you do if you were in this character’s position?

6. Plan a Game Night

Game nights are fun, but they also help support social emotional skills too. Games — including both board games and outdoor play games — teach children how to take turns, how to cooperate with others to reach a common goal, how to cope with frustrations, and how to enjoy playing even if you’re not winning.

Social Emotional Development and ADHD: Take Your Next Steps

Are you searching for more strategies to help your child? In addition to nurturing social emotional skills at home, your child may benefit from professional care.

We’re proud to offer a multidisciplinary and holistic approach to you and your child’s mental health needs. Our team of providers are experts when it comes to effective medication management, parent coaching, and positive parenting strategies to motivate and encourage children with ADHD.

To make an appointment, call us at 502-907-5908. You can also request an appointment here.

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6 Virtual Gym Class Ideas for Kids with ADHD

Health experts from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that children get at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. How your child gets that exercise — dancing, swimming, bike riding, playing soccer, playing catch with a ball in the yard — doesn’t really matter.

There is also evidence that spending time outside in nature can calm some kids with ADHD. Even bundling up and playing in the snow or going for a winter hike counts as good exercise. However, between the cold winter months and busy schedules, getting outside to play isn’t always easy.

Below are six online workouts that allow your child to let out some pent-up energy. Bonus: some of them may feature your child’s favorite characters!

1. Minecraft Yoga with Cosmic Kids

2. The Very Hungry Caterpillar with Cosmic Kids

3. Mario Gym Class with Sweat Kids

4. Indoor Workout: Exercise in the Jungle

5. PopSugar Family Fitness Cardio

6. Frozen Dance with Sam Cam’s Dance Studio

Even with adequate exercise, unmanaged ADHD can impact your child’s home and school life. As a multidisciplinary practice, we can help children with ADHD (and their parents) take their next steps. Our holistic approach looks at all aspects of treatment from therapy, lifestyle modifications, medication management, and parent coaching.

If you would like to book an appointment with one of our professionals, give us a call at 502-907-5908 or fill out this form. 

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Planning a Winter Getaway? Here Are 4 Packing Tips for Adults with ADHD

Planning a winter getaway? Whether you’re headed for a skiing trip up north or you’re headed south to soak up the sun on a warm beach, you’ll need to pack. Yet, packing can be a source of frustration for adults with ADHD.

Our multidisciplinary team knows that skills that require planning — one of the executive function skills — can be tricky, but we also know that like all skills, your planning skills can be strengthened.

In this blog, we take a look at the reasons why packing is so troublesome and what strategies can make packing for a vacation so much easier.

3 Reasons Packing is Hard for Adults with ADHD

1. Packing Requires Planning

Planning is essential when it comes to packing, yet planning can be difficult for this with ADHD. Planning requires you to:

• Think about where you’re going and what specific activities you’ll be doing
• Consider any dress code requirements you’ll encounter
• Consider the weather at your destination

Even if you don’t enjoy planning, there are some steps you can take to make this part of vacationing more tolerable.

2. Packing Requires Decision-Making

Making decisions is hard for ADHD adults, and packing for a vacation is nothing more than making one decision after another.

• Should you bring one sweater or two?
• How many back-up pairs of socks do you need? Do I need specialize socks to ski or snowboard?
• Will the hotel have shampoo? Will that be enough?
• What if rains? Do you really need a rain coat?
• Did I pack enough?
• What if my good blouse gets stained?
• Do I need to bring a swimsuit?
• If I bring these pants, I need to pack my other shoes, right?

Not only is this overwhelming, but too many decisions all at once can lead to decision fatigue.

3. Packing Requires Organization

It’s no secret that organization is one of the biggest struggles for adults and teens with ADHD. Lack of organization can lead to many problems, including wrinkles clothes, misplaced train tickets, and so.much.stress.

4 Travel Packing Tips for Adults with ADHD

The good news is that these four tips can address all of the things you find so overwhelming with packing.

1. Make a list.

Before you even open your suitcase, make a list of everything you want to pack. Include a category for:

• Clothes
• Shoes
• Toiletries, such as contacts, contact solution, soap, sunscreen, etc.
• Electronic gear, including cameras, phones, tablets, and their chargers
• Snacks
• Tickets, reservation information, etc.

2. Plan outfits by the day.

Clothing can be an overwhelming part of the packing process. Did you pack too much? Not enough? The wrong attire all together?

Once you print out your packing list, plan your outfits by day. It might look something like this:

Saturday

• Travel day
• Joggers, sweatshirt, sneakers

Sunday

• Brunch in the morning: black wrap dress, wedge heels, white sweater
• Scuba tour in afternoon: swimsuit, sarong, flip flops

Monday

• Hiking in the morning: green hiking shorts, REI shirt, wool socks, hiking boots, sweatband, hiking backpack, water bottle, first aid kit
• Evening wine tasting: pink sun dress, wedge heels, white sweater

Once you start organizing your list this way, you’ll quickly identify if you’ve packed the right clothes for your itinerary — and if you can repeat any outfits or shoes.

3. Organize Your Suitcase

Once you’ve identified what clothes you need, pack your clothes in your suitcase. For some, using packing cubes helps organize your suitcase. Using packing cubes (or any other small pouch that holds only one day’s worth of clothes) makes it easier to search for what you need in your suitcase.

Winter clothes can be bulky. Consider using vacuum seals to help fit bulky items better.

4. Pack Light

More stuff means more to keep track of, and that can be overwhelming. Within reason, packing as light as possible can reduce some of those overwhelming feelings. For example, choose a pair of shoes to pack that matches the majority of your outfits. This can help you reduce the number of shoes you bring.

Other tips to pack light:

• Bring e-books instead of physical books
• Use paperless tickets when possible

Need More Help with Planning and Organizing?

Planning and organizing are essential when you’re packing for a vacation, but that’s not the only scenario where you rely on these skills. You also need planning and organization to:

• Plan projects at work
• Organize household events, chores, and family schedules
• Organize your workload in college
• Determine order of priority for your to-do list

Comprehensive ADHD treatment, including therapy and coaching, helps you strengthen this skillset. Our multidisciplinary team can help your child learn to THRIVE.

You can also request an appointment here.

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