Avoiding and procrastinating

Get tips on how to stop procrastination and avoidance for people with ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities. Learn strategies to help kids with school refusal and anxiety.

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Tips and strategies

  • Quick tip
    Remind them of past successes.

    Point out something they achieved in the past. Have them remember what it felt like. Then connect that success to the new challenge: “You finished all your homework last Tuesday. You have the same amount tonight. I know you can do it.”

  • Quick tip
    Find out what’s worrying them.

    Is there anything about today in particular that’s causing stress? Some kids refuse to go to school on certain days or to do certain kinds of work. Or they may be anxious about a change in routine or worried about something going on at home.

  • Quick tip
    Plan “brain breaks.”

    Plan to take a break before frustration or lack of focus sets in. For grade-schoolers, that’s typically after 10 to 15 minutes of work. Older students can work for up to 20 to 30 minutes before a break. Set timers for when to start and end each break.

Podcast

School refusal: When kids say no

School refusal is real, and it’s trying to tell you something. But how do you figure out what that is?

Downloads

  • ADHD fact sheetPDF

  • 6 common myths about learning and thinking differencesPDF

  • ADHD icebergPDF

  • Getting ready for schoolPDF

More resources