Back to School with ADHD: Tips from a Pediatric Neuropsychologist
- drphcampbell
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
The start of a new school year brings excitement, fresh routines, and—for many families—some anxiety about how their child will adjust. For students with ADHD, the transition back to school can be especially challenging. Changes in structure, academic expectations, and social demands can trigger frustration, forgetfulness, and emotional overwhelm.
As a pediatric neuropsychologist, I’ve worked with hundreds of children and teens with ADHD. While every child’s needs are different, there are practical, evidence-based strategies that can help make the school year feel smoother and more successful from day one.
Here are my top tips to help your child with ADHD thrive this fall:
1. Ease Into the School Routine Early
Children with ADHD often have a harder time adjusting to sudden changes in sleep and activity schedules. Start shifting bedtime and morning wake-ups back to school-day hours about a week before school begins. Include calming evening routines, such as reading or quiet music, to help the body and brain wind down.
2. Preview Expectations Visually
Visual schedules, checklists, or dry-erase boards can help make the daily routine more concrete and manageable. Create a visual plan for the morning (getting dressed, breakfast, backpack check) and after school (snack, homework, screen time, etc.). This gives your child predictability and reduces power struggles.
3. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
ADHD affects working memory and executive function, which makes it harder to remember multi-step directions. Instead of saying “Get ready for bed,” try breaking it down: “First brush your teeth, then put on pajamas, then come back for a story.” At school, accommodations like written instructions or one-step-at-a-time guidance can make a big difference.
4. Establish Consistent Homework Routines
Homework battles are one of the most common concerns I hear from families. Set up a quiet, clutter-free workspace and stick to a predictable homework time each day. Use timers to break assignments into manageable chunks—like 20 minutes of work, followed by a 5-minute movement break.
5. Communicate with the Teacher Early
Don’t wait for problems to arise. Share any evaluation reports or accommodation plans with your child’s teacher at the beginning of the year. Let them know what strategies have worked in the past and what your child may need help with—whether that’s staying on task, organizing materials, or handling transitions.
6. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Children with ADHD often hear more correction than praise. Make it a habit to notice and celebrate effort—even in small things like remembering their folder or starting homework without a reminder. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and motivation.
7. Consider an Updated Evaluation
If your child’s needs have changed—or if accommodations aren’t working—it might be time for a fresh look. A comprehensive ADHD or neuropsychological evaluation can help clarify what’s going on beneath the surface and guide targeted strategies at home and school.
Let’s Make This Year Different
At Grow Neuropsychology, I offer in-depth evaluations that go beyond the surface to understand each child’s unique strengths and challenges. Whether your child needs an updated diagnosis, new accommodations, or simply a roadmap for success, I’m here to help.
If your family receives the Step Up Unique Abilities Scholarship, you can use those funds directly with my practice.
Let’s work together to make this school year one of growth, confidence, and calm.
📞 Call 813-492-7319
Located in Land O’ Lakes | Serving Tampa Bay Families
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