Anyone who homeschools knows that it can be difficult to keep kids focused on their work. There are many distractions that can distract you or your child, and this is particularly difficult for children with ADD/ADHD.
If you have a child with ADD or ADHD, you’re probably constantly looking for solutions. The schedule seems to be the biggest challenge for many homeschooling moms. The Pomodoro Technique may be just what you and your child need to get things done.
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is actually from a book on time management. It delves into how we perceive time and how to change our habits and thought processes to better use our time.
If you are thinking of using this technique, you should definitely get the book and read it in its entirety so that you fully understand all the fundamentals that cannot be summarized in this article. But the part that can really benefit your child’s homeschooling is the timer technique that the book focuses on.
How the Pomodoro Technique Works
The first thing you need to do is find a digital timer that your child can easily use. Obviously, this will vary depending on your child and her age. Everything from clocks to kitchen timers work well, but portable timers are best as they can be used anywhere.
As you begin to use the Pomodoro Technique, sit down with your child and make a list of what needs to be accomplished. Do this the night before or first thing in the morning.
For each item on the list, set the timer to 25 minutes. Have your child work on the article for 25 minutes, and when the timer goes off, let them take a break. 5 minutes is the recommended break time, but some people will take a 10-minute break. Whatever time frame you choose, just make sure your child sticks to it.
Once the break is over, they reset the timer for 25 minutes and continue with the previous item on the list if it wasn’t finished, or start with the next one.
give them something to look forward to
This method can be very effective for anyone, but for a homeschooler with ADD or ADHD, it really can be a breath of fresh air. The child can work on his projects with a better attitude, because he knows that there is a finite time before he gets to do something that he wants to do. Kids with ADD/ADHD can really get stuck if they don’t know how long a project will take and feel like they’re stuck there until it’s done. When they know there’s a timer counting down and then they’ll be allowed to do something fun, they can apply themselves better. There is light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak.
Make sure the reward is presented early, especially when you first start using this method. It can be reading, drawing, going out and playing, or whatever you and your child decide. Keep in mind that for kids with ADHD, physical activity during breaks can help them focus even better.
Try the Pomodoro Technique for a week and see how it works for your child. It may be just the right amount of structure and flexibility that they need, and you may even find yourself doing more.
