Ten tips to get your homework done and turned in, even if you have ADHD

1. Make a list of all the homework you have to do.

2. As you complete each assignment, check it off on the list.

3. Write down how much time it will take to do each assignment. Do this by deciding how much time you think the assignment will take, and then double it. This is the time it will take to do the assignment, not counting breaks. If you have a long-term assignment, decide how much time you will work on it this time.

4. Decide what your reward will be when you do what you have to do and your homework is completed. Maybe you can watch a tv show, play video games, get on the internet, read a book, or whatever you decide you can't do until you are done your homework. Write that down.

5. Use a digital timer (You can get them in a kitchen store in the mall, or I like the ones from Pampered Chef.) Set the timer to work for 20 minutes at a time. Then set it for your 5 minute break. This is just a short break: stretch, walk around a little, get a glass of water.

6. Clip the timer to your clothes, so that if you walk away, you will hear it when it goes off.

7. If your break comes at the end of an assignment and you will be starting another one when you get back, get out everything you need to start the new assignment before you take your break. For example, open the book to the page you will start on. If it's math, sharpen the pencil. Then, when you come back from your break, it will be so much easier to sit down and start.

8. Get a plastic 2-pocket folder that pops into your 3-ring binder so you don't have to open the rings each time. Label one side "Take home," and label the other side "Take to school." When you get homework sheets, papers to take home, etc. put them in the take "Take home" side right away. When your homework sheets are completed, and forms are completed, etc., put them in the "Take to school" side right away. No more lost homework sheets, and everyday you can turn in your homework because you know where to find it. When you have checked off the last assignment, put the folder back in the binder and the binder in the backpack along with your books.

9. Put your backpack near the door so you can pick it up on your way out in the morning.

10. Reward time! You have a completed assignment sheet, which means you have done all of your homework, you know where it is so you can turn it in, and your backpack is ready for the next day! Congratulations!

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