Using Technology as Friend Not Foe

Boy in headphones looking tablet computer on the natureEverybody needs reminders sometimes. Children and teens with ADHD seem to need more reminders than other youngsters and often feel like they are being nagged. Technology, although a frequent source of distraction, can be extremely helpful in providing kids with ADHD the cues they need and reduce the “nagging” factor. Parents and educators can use cell phones, iPads to help kids improve their organization, reduce forgetfulness and learn to be more independent. If someone has a phone or an iPad, then they have an aide that they carry around constantly. I rarely come across a teen who doesn’t know where the phone is at all times. A child with an iPad is equally attached to his/her electronic device. Use the phone or iPad as the reminder machine so you don’t have to do this. Set alarms for chores, homework times, work breaks, appointments and even turning in assignments. Pick ONE and only one task that your teen or child forgets to do and set the alarm for that event. Watch them set it up so that the alarm has a label related to the task. Make sure all adults who interact with the youngster throughout the day understand the reminder program that you are starting. This alarm will then cue the teen to do the expected task. When you have success with this one thing, then you can add in another, but NO MORE than three per day. By having the technology do the cuing, then you are teaching self-reliance and building self-esteem simultaneously. You will support changes in behaviors without running them.