How are you feeling as this school term wraps up? Are you feeling happy with how the term has gone for your child or overwhelmed and wondering if you’ve done enough to support and advocate for your child with ADHD? If it’s the latter, you’re definitely not alone! The good news is, it’s never too late to reflect, adjust, and set your child up for a positive experience next term. Here are 5 practical steps to help you end this term on a strong note and move confidently forward to next term.
1. Celebrate the Wins – Big and Small
Pause for a moment and reflect on your child’s achievements this term. No matter how small they seem, every success counts! Did they complete homework independently, improve at managing their emotions, or simply survive those tough mornings? Celebrate these moments together – they’re building blocks for your child’s self-esteem. Equally, gently acknowledge areas where they’ve struggled, so you can plan support in a thoughtful way. It’s crucial to remember to celebrate your child’s strengths beyond academics, such as their creativity, kindness, or special talents and hobbies, as these contribute significantly to their overall confidence and happiness.
2. Check-In with Your Child’s Teacher
If you haven’t spoken much with your child’s teacher yet, please don’t stress – it’s never too late. Teachers appreciate hearing your insights. Share openly about your child’s strengths, interests, and the areas they find challenging. Feel free to discuss strategies that have worked well (or not so well) at home or school in previous classes. A simple conversation can make a huge difference and foster a supportive relationship between you, your child, and their teacher.
3. Get Your Child’s IEP Sorted
If your child doesn’t yet have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or if it needs updating, now’s the perfect time to reach out to your school’s learning support team. An effective IEP clearly outlines achievable goals and specific accommodations tailored to your child’s unique needs. It shouldn’t be treated as just a tick-box exercise or a document left forgotten in a drawer. An IEP must be actively implemented, regularly reviewed, and quickly adjusted if it’s not supporting your child’s progress effectively. Remember, this document isn’t only about managing behaviour—it’s a roadmap to help your child genuinely reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
4. Share a Snapshot About Your Child
Creating a simple but comprehensive snapshot of your child can be incredibly helpful for their teacher. Think of it as a friendly guide, summarizing your child’s strengths (maybe they’re creative, funny, or great at storytelling), their challenges (such as focusing in class or managing transitions), successful strategies you’ve discovered (like visual timetables or regular movement breaks), and things that tend to backfire (long instructions or tasks without clear structure). This quick reference ensures your child receives consistent support tailored to their unique needs.
5. Collaborate on Goals for Next Term
Together with your child and their teacher, set realistic and achievable goals for the coming term. Ask your child what they’d like to accomplish and involve them in planning the steps to get there. Regular check-ins are essential – these keep your child motivated and allow you to celebrate progress along the way. Clear, achievable goals also empower your child to take ownership of their own growth.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Parenting a child with ADHD can be incredibly rewarding, yet undeniably challenging. You’re doing a wonderful job, even on days when it doesn’t
feel that way. Reflecting on each term and planning ahead sets a strong foundation for the rest of the school year. Remember, every small step you take makes a real difference in your child’s school experience and overall happiness. You’ve got this!
The author, Vivian Dunstan, is Founder & CEO of ADHD Support Australia ADDCA trained ADHD Coach, Parent Coach & Facilitator of Parenting Children with ADHD – a 6-week online course, Certified Tech Addiction & Digital Health Educator (NIDHW) and Facilitator of the 6-week online Digital Parenting Program, Certified PEERS Social Skills for Teens & Young Adults coach and program facilitator, Certified NeuroACT provider & course facilitator, non-practicing teacher, parent of a young adult with ADHD and has ADHD herself.
