Following instructions
Find out why kids have trouble following directions and instructions. Learn how ADHD and executive function can play a role, and get strategies for creating routines and schedules.
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Tips and strategies
- Quick tipBreak it into steps.
Each step should be clear, simple, and specific. “Put the frozen food in the freezer first” is more helpful than “Put away the groceries.”
- Quick tipRepeat directions.
If you’re giving cleanup directions, expect to say them more than once. People with ADHD often need reminders to stay on track. Phones are a great tool: Jot down steps in a note, use alarms to get started, or try an organization app.
- Quick tipMake it visual.
Help kids follow steps by using a visual planner or picture schedule. Place it where kids can easily see it, and have them mark off what’s been done.
Podcast
Executive function skills: What are they and how can we help kids build them?
Messy backpacks. Forgotten lunches. Missing assignments. How can we help our kids get organized this school year?
Downloads
Getting ready for schoolPDF
Getting ready for bedPDF
Afterschool routinePDF
Cleaning up roomPDF
More resources
All articles
- Classroom accommodations for executive function challenges
- Pre-correcting and prompting: An evidence-based behavior strategy
- Why kids can’t seem to turn off their screens
- 3 ways to give directions to help kids with ADHD
- 8 ADHD teaching strategies
- Child won’t follow a routine or schedule? Try these 5 tips
- 8 fun games that can improve your child’s executive function skills
- Washing hands: How to get kids in the habit
- How I got my child to listen (without yelling)
- 10 tips to help your child follow directions
- 7 ideas for using rewards and consequences
- Self-care routines: How to help kids who struggle with motor skills
- Download: Picture schedules for daily routines
- Trouble sequencing: Why some people do things out of order
- Why some kids are so forgetful
- Why kids don’t hand in their work (even if they did it)
- Trouble with flexible thinking: Why some kids only see things one way
- What is working memory?
- The difference between discipline and punishment
- Understanding trouble following directions
- ADHD and lying: Why kids with ADHD might lie a lot
- A day in the life of a child with slow processing speed
- Why kids have trouble following a routine or schedule
- Why some kids don’t listen