OCTOBER

Sick of the
status quo?
EMPOWER YOUR
DISTRACTED CHILD
Celebrate Small Victories
BY LINDSAY SPRINGER
P
arents are frequently frustrated, and often at a loss, when faced
with the reality that their child is forgetful, disorganised, or easily
distracted. Whether daydreaming, moving around constantly, or
unable to pay attention, such actions cause parents to feel helpless in
their capacity to aid their child.
For kids who struggle with diagnosed or undiagnosed attention and
focus disorders, recognising and managing symptoms is critical.
These tips will keep kids on track:
GET INVOLVED If your child’s knapsack is
unkempt, if you’re making endless trips
to the lost and found, or if your child is
constantly panicked and studying at 10 p.m.
the night before a math test, such challenges
are best-addressed when parents actively
provide executive functioning support of
their child’s unique needs.
Meet with teachers early on to implement
assistive devices (tablets, laptops, online
schedulers), fidget toys, and kinesthetic
gadgets. Share a calendar with your child,
and follow-up with teachers regularly to
avoid panic situations. Put supports in place
early, so kids feel more in control of their
organisational skills.
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Broker of Record/Owner
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PLAN AHEAD Kids who struggle to be
attentive succeed best when they know
what to expect. A wall calendar in a visible
place, and scheduling weekly check-ins will
prepare them for the coming days. Avoid
forgetfulness and stressful mornings by
packing bags and lunches, and preparing
their clothes in advance of the school day.
Also, encourage your child to keep a bullet
journal of important information, so they
can plan their to-dos.
POSITIVE PARENTING As parents, we often
focus on our child’s shortcomings. Instead
of, ‘I can’t believe you lost your lunchbox
again!’ reward your child with positive
language when they remember to bring
it home. Celebrate the small victories by
embracing positive parenting strategies to
foster your child’s life skills.
771 St. Clair Avenue West
Located on the second floor at the south-east corner
of St. Clair Ave. & Arlington Ave., just west of Christie St.
Not intended to solicit properties listed on MLS or buyers under a contract with a REALTOR.
Get involved, plan ahead, and acknowledge your child’s smallest
achievements to teach them that, while overcoming hurdles, they
can and will find their own path to success.
LINDSAY SPRINGER MA, OCT, is the founder and director of BookMark
Tutors, an in-home tutoring company in Toronto.
34 VILLAGE LIVING MIDTOWN