We’re about a month into being back to school and here’s what’s been coming up for me: homework issues. I was a bit hesitant about releasing an episode on this topic because to be fair, it sounds boring. But I know I’m not the only one struggling with this right now! Luckily, my incredible guest, Lara Dawn, certified teacher and founder of The ADHD Village, knows just how to turn this topic into an interesting conversation!
Homework issues make relationship issues
Often, our kids come home from school feeling exhausted from the day they’ve had. At home, they want to play, connect, and recharge. And then there’s homework… Lara gives us some invaluable tips and we discuss ways to make homework time work for your kid and your family!
The ADHD brain
ADHD brains have an imbalance of dopamine and adrenaline, which are crucial in fueling the frontal lobe of the brain. This is the part of the brain that is used for executive function skills like time management, planning, and organization. And thus also for homework!
I love Lara’s examples of how she makes homework time fun for her kids and helps them get the dopamine and adrenaline hit they need. Tune in to today’s episode to find out exactly how she does this.
In this episode on homework issues, we cover
- The brain chemicals that play a role in making homework (especially for ADHD kids);
- How do we figure out what’s going to work for our kids with all the busy schedules of the family?;
- Strategies for when this feels hard to get done as a parent;
- Breaking the task of homework into smaller pieces;
- And so much more!
You can find our podcast Active and Connected Families wherever you listen to your podcasts, or simply click here!
More about Active & Connected Family Therapy
Active & Connected Family Therapy is a mental health practice serving individuals, families, and our community. Our practice is designed to help people at all stages and from all walks of life by offering therapists and physicians with diverse backgrounds and specialties via face-to-face, walk-and-talk, and telemedicine appointments. Throughout, we are committed to developing strengths-based, authentic, and long-lasting relationships with you and your children. We hope to provide you with the support and insight you need to help your family navigate life’s hard times and joys.
Are you or your child struggling with mental health? We have a team of psychologists and psychiatrists who can help you out. You can learn more about our practice or contact us here.
More about Lara Dawn
Lara Dawn is the founder of The ADHD Village – a community that offers brain-based, science-backed support for families raising children with ADHD. She is a certified teacher with over 20 years experience specializing in Environmental Science and Special Education. She is happily married and has two neurodiverse sons.
Lara supports moms in learning how to eliminate stress while navigating their children’s ADHD so that they are calm, confident and deeply connected to their children. She also helps parents rais children to embrace their ADHD and feel empowered so that they can be in control of their emotions and behaviours.
You can connect with Lara on Instagram @theadhdvillage.
Resources and links mentioned in this episode
- Are you or your child struggling with mental health? We have a team of psychologists and psychiatrists who can help you out. You can learn more about our practice or contact us here.
- You can connect with Lara on Instagram @theadhdvillage. Or visit their website by clicking here.
- Here you can find the Order Out Of Chaos Planners Lara likes to use.
- We’d love to hear your feedback on our podcast. Why not leave us a review on Apple Podcasts?
- Connect with us on Instagram.
- We’ve got a bunch of episodes for you to binge-listen to! How about one of our most listened-to episodes on how we explain anxiety to kids and families?
Disclaimer: Please remember we are real live therapists, however this is a podcast and is not considered a therapy session. Not only because there is no co-pay but also because we can’t speak to your individual experiences. We are here to help you keep raising healthy kids. And remember, if you are an imperfect parent, we are right there with you. If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, please call your local crisis hotline or go to your nearest emergency room.
Fostering growth through connection.
