Mindful Connections: Navigating ADHD, Trauma, and Beyond with Dr. Connie McReynolds |
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June 2024, Issue 2 Summer Homework: Pros and Cons |
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Dear Reader , Welcome to the second issue of Mindful Connections: Navigating ADHD, Trauma, and Beyond with Dr. Connie.
Summer provides children with ADHD a much-needed break from the rigors of the school year, allowing them to relax and have fun. However, parents often worry about the "summer slide," a phenomenon where children lose the academic skills they gained during the school year. This concern raises a crucial question: Should parents keep pushing academic activities throughout the summer or let their children take a complete break? |
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For children with ADHD, summer brings relief from the struggles of the academic year allowing them an opportunity to relax and have fun. Parents of children with ADHD are naturally concerned about whether being away from academic studies over the summer will lead to the ‘summer slide.’ Summer slide is characterized as a loss of knowledge, or skills achieved in the previous year. This concern leads parents to struggle with whether to push on through the summer or give children a break from the pressure. From my experience working with children with ADHD for the past 15+ years, striking a balance has been an effective approach. For some children with ADHD, structured academic activities can help maintain a sense of routine and are beneficial. However, other children may view summer academic work as a type of punishment or a burden. These feelings, if not managed effectively, can cause children to feel like they are still in school and lead to burn out before the next school year begins. |
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With so much of a child’s academic life being lived through computers these days, finding ways to incorporate learning activities away from technology will support the idea that learning can be fun. A balanced approach includes incorporating learning |
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activities into summer projects, fun activities, educational trips, or community events. For example, planning fun trips to farms, museums and parks, or engaging in star gazing, gardening, and time in nature can teach children about history, science, and the environment while limiting screen time. |
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Finding creative outlets for your child to learn and grow by incorporating physical activities ensures your child gets outside and away from the computer. Alternatively, consider board games, card games, puzzles to help your child enhance their thinking |
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and memory. Involving children in daily tasks, such as cooking and shopping can strengthen math skills and help them learn about budgeting. And always remember that reading and storytelling are great ways to enhance language skills while strengthening family connections. In closing, make it fun, get outside, limit technology, and enjoy the summer while still supporting your child’s academic goals along with their mental well-being. |
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In the coming newsletters, we will delve deeper into the symptoms and signs of auditory and visual processing problems, share real-life stories, and provide practical tips for parents and teachers. My goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to support those with these challenges, fostering an environment where everyone can succeed. Warm regards, Dr. Connie McReynolds |
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Morningstar Educational & Psychological Services, Inc. | 1901 Orange Tree Lane, #220, Redlands, CA 92374 | |
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