Understanding trouble following directions

Executive function involves many skills, including memory, attention, and planning. Weaknesses in these areas make it hard to follow directions.

People might not remember what someone just said. They might struggle to keep track of the steps in a task. Or they may not “hear” the directions because they’re distracted and not focusing on them.

For some people, trouble following directions is really trouble following directions quickly. They take longer than others to process information and need more time to get the job done. This is often referred to as slow processing speed.

The more information you have, the better able you’ll be to help. Try to look for patterns in your child’s behavior. Share what you’re seeing with your child’s teacher and health care provider. 

Getting into trouble and struggling with tasks can make kids feel bad about themselves. Learn how to respond to negative self-talk. Discover strategies to help your child follow directions. And find out how one mom got her child to listen (without yelling).

Specific tips:

• Get your child’s full attention before giving directions.

• Give short and simple instructions.

• Create written or picture lists of the steps in a task.

Students who have trouble following directions can easily get frustrated and act out — in addition to not getting work done. Understanding what their behavior is telling you lets you respond to their specific needs. 

It’s important to connect with parents and caregivers to work on these challenges. You can share the behavior you see in class and find out what’s happening at home.

Specific tips:

• Give praise for working hard.

• Let students know it’s OK to fail sometimes.

• Give written, step-by-step directions.

There are strategies you can try for remembering the steps in a task and doing them in the right order. Written checklists can help. So can having directions repeated.

You may be able to get accommodations at school or in the workplace. These supports can help keep challenges from getting in the way of doing your best work.

People with ADHD often struggle with following directions. That’s because ADHD is a problem with executive function. For people with ADHD, medication may help. Reach out to your health care provider if you’re concerned about ADHD.