Kids around the world are counting down until the start of summer vacation, but the child who has ADHD may react differently than his peers. Consider the structure of a school day and the routine that has been needed at home to complete schoolwork, activities, and household chores. Summer brings a halt to many of the routines that have supported the child.
Less Structure at School
Even before the school year ends, the schedule begins to change for school children. End-of-the-year activities such as assemblies and field trips mark completion of another grade. These events are so important, yet the change in routine can be tough for the child with ADHD.
Consider a fictitious child with ADHD. "Sam" is in the fourth grade. Perhaps in class Sam sits across the room from Nate. (His teacher has arranged it that way so that Sam is not tempted to impulsively horse around during class transitions.) On the day of the Recognition Assembly, however, Sam and Nate end up sitting near each other in the auditorium. The lack of class structure and the fact that they are sitting near each other might create some behavior issues for Sam. While it is true that Sam’s teacher can separate the boys, at some point in life Sam will have to deal with those tempting situations.
Personal Change in Routine
The end of the school year obviously brings a dramatic change in schedule as well. Perhaps during the school year, Sam gets up at the same time every day. He leaves for school at the same time. After school Sam is allowed a short time to unwind, and then he begins his homework. After his homework is dinner, and then he is allowed to watch a favorite TV show before going to bed.
When summer arrives, Sam’s personal routine changes because he will be at home with a sitter. He will not have to get up early. He will have the entire day to enjoy the lazy days of summer. The time that seems that it will be fun can also be like the assembly situation at school.
Parents of the child with ADHD are challenged to create a summer schedule that will work. The schedule should be a blend of relaxation and unstructured fun times as well as a predictable pattern to the day. It does not mean that every minute has to be structured, but it the child with ADHD definitely benefits from a summer routine.
Lynn Moore - Moore is a freelance writer, experienced special education teacher, and mother of two. She has worked as a developmental therapist for ...
