Adapted from ADDitude Magazine

Sometimes mapping out the whole summer is difficult, but having a general overview is a good start. Write a list of your child's personal goals for the summer. These may include: improving reading or math skills; learning to play golf or tennis; getting in shape; mastering Microsoft® Windows®; making new friends; or getting better at skateboarding. It will soon become apparent that these goals won't be accomplished unless you plan for them.

Then make a plan that combines structured and unstructured time, adequate supervision, and enough variety to keep your child stimulated and on-task.

• Talk with your children about their interests, like sports, astronomy, drama, computers, or art. Locate supervised programs in your area that enable children to spend the maximum time doing the things they love and are likely to stick with.
  
  
• Sleep-away and day camps enable children to get away, grow, and feel independent. Many camps enroll children until mid-summer. Look for programs that help build the social and life skills that children with ADHD have the most difficulty mastering. Choosing and Preparing for the Right Camp
  
  
• If camp isn't an option, consider extended-year academic programs or public summer school. Low-cost or no-cost half-day options enable children to improve their skills at a relaxed pace.
  
  
• Older children can volunteer part-time at local animal shelters, the zoo, and other organizations. A daily schedule and adult supervision will help ensure that your child stays put. Some teens may qualify for part-time summer jobs.
  
  

Finally, expect that part of a child's vision of the summer is having more time to just "hang out." Too many parents view rest and relaxation as nonproductive, but inactivity doesn't necessarily mean children are not being productive. Here are a few ideas:

• Plan fun family outings such as picnics, movies, museums, or a day at an amusement park.
  
  
• If you can, take a family vacation or a series of mini-vacations.
  
  
• At home, increase your child's access to activities they enjoy such as computer games or rent a series of movies for evenings.
  
  
• Encourage get-togethers with friends. If you have the space and time to supervise as needed, have your children invite their friends to sleep over.
  
  

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