An important concept to understand when working with ADD Students is that they need frequent breaks in order to do their best. And this is true across the board – whether they are doing their homework or cleaning their room.
With schoolwork, kids need a break every 15 minutes or so, especially when they are studying or doing difficult work. The brain needs that break in order to store what’s been learned in long term memory.
When they are doing other tasks, such as cleaning their room, they need a break now and then in order to take a breather. Their brain is not being taxed in the same manner as when they are studying, but they still need that mental refresher.
The break doesn’t have to be long – just a couple of minutes. Long enough to get up and stretch, go to the bathroom, or grab a snack.
Taking a break also gives them a chance to step back and look at the big picture: how much has been accomplished and what is still left to do. Regular breaks also tend to encourage focus because the child knows that another break is coming soon.
So remember, next time your child is studying or doing something intense, give them a break!
