Discover the perfect homeschool curriculum tailored for ADHD learners. Explore resources, tips, and support to help your child thrive in their education.

The Best Homeschool Curriculum for ADHD: A Comprehensive Guide
Homeschooling can be a rewarding and effective approach for children with ADHD. Choosing the right curriculum is essential to help these learners thrive. In this guide, we’ll explore the best homeschool curriculum options tailored for ADHD, along with practical tips and strategies to support your child’s unique learning needs.
My son was diagnosed with ADHD at 6-years-old. It was no surprise to us. It was actually the number one reason we chose to homeschool and why I left in the middle of pursuing my elementary education degree. Homeschooling a child with ADHD has a lot of trials and errors, but we have been told numerous times by medical professionals, that homeschooling ADHD is one of the best things we can do for him.
Understanding ADHD and Learning Styles
Before diving into specific curricula, it’s important to understand how ADHD affects learning. Children with ADHD may struggle with:
- Attention Span: Difficulty focusing for long periods.
- Impulsivity: Challenges with self-control and waiting for their turn.
- Hyperactivity: Excess energy that may lead to restlessness.
Given these traits, a flexible, engaging, and structured curriculum is crucial. Look for programs that incorporate movement, hands-on activities, and varied learning formats to keep your child engaged.
The Easy Way to Identify Your Child’s Learning Style
Key Features of ADHD-Friendly Curricula
- Multisensory Learning: Curricula that involve visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles can help children with ADHD better grasp concepts.
- Flexible Scheduling: A program that allows for adjustments in pacing can help accommodate your child’s focus levels and energy fluctuations.
- Short, Engaging Lessons: Break lessons into smaller segments to maintain interest and improve retention.
- Interactive and Hands-On Activities: Incorporate projects, experiments, and field trips to make learning dynamic and fun.
- Clear Structure and Routine: A predictable schedule can help children with ADHD feel more secure and focused.
The Best Homeschool Curriculum for ADHD
Math
- BJU Math– BJU Math is more of a traditional math workbook. However, it is a nice mix of spiral and mastery. It focuses on mastery, gives repetition, and yet continues to incorporate what you’ve already learning, so your child with ADHD won’t forget.
- Math with Confidence– MWC is a hands-on, real life math approach. It is heavy on number sense. I wish I had it for my ADHD son at the beginning of our journey. I used several levels with my neurotypical son and plan to with my other children as well.
- Apologia Math– Apologia Math is similar to MWC in that it’s very hands-on. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a ton of repetition, which is what my ADHD homeschooler needs. The lessons are short and interactive though, so perfect for students with ADHD.
Reading
- All About Reading We tried several reading programs, including The Good and the Beautiful and My Father’s World. Click here to see why we love AAR for our ADHD and neurotypical homeschoolers.
- Logic of English– This is another popular choice for reading. Unlike AAR, it incorporates spelling into the reading curriculum. The approaches are similar, as they are both based on Orton-Gillingham. A method that is super helpful for children with ADHD.
Writing
- Just Write– Just Write has a series of 3 books starting from around 2nd grade up to 6th grade. We are currently using book 3 with my 7th grade ADHD kiddo. They are quick, simple lessons. He enjoys that many of the writing prompts are open-ended, allowing him the freedom to choose what he wants to write.
- How to WRITE a Paragraph– I have used this for both of my boys and they have really enjoyed it. It includes lovely, colorful visuals, fun writing prompts, and step-by-step instructions for each week. Making it easy for student and teacher. This is best for about 3-4th grade.
- IEW– I would proceed with IEW with caution. While I appreciate the process, the video series is entirely too long for children with ADHD. If you feel confident teaching their writing lessons, I prefer those more so than the structure and style.
Spelling
- All About Spelling– AAS is very similar to All About Reading. It uses a multisensory approach and phonics to teach spelling.
- Sequential Spelling– This spelling program was created by someone with dyslexia, a learning disability that is common in children with ADHD. It’s simple and inexpensive. It builds from smaller words to large words, helping kids with ADHD build confidence.
- Spelling Power– This is what my son with ADHD is currently using. We don’t exactly use it as written. We use the lists to build our own spelling lists. He then completes hands-on activities during the week to study the words.
Grammar
- Interactive Grammar– We liked these type of grammars before Winston Grammar. They are hands-on and interactive. Since they are downloadable, you can use them over and over again, which will save money for multiple children as well.
- Winston Grammar– This is my favorite grammar, especially for my ADHD son. It really clicked with him. I like that it uses cards to help explain, as well as editing and identifying to help with repetition. Here’s a video of Winston Grammar for a better look.
- Fix It Grammar– My ADHD son likes Fix It Grammars short lessons. However, I don’t feel they do a great job teaching grammar. I’d use the first two options I mentioned to get a good understanding and then use Fix It as more of upkeep and review.
Science
- Rabbit Trails Homeschool– We love Rabbit Trails because it incorporates quality literature and hands-on projects.
- Simple Studies– Simple Studies is just that, simple! Read great books, incorporate narration and notebooking, and short, simple lessons.
- Science Shepherd– Science Shepherd is great for visual learners, as it is an online science curriculum. It also incorporates hands-on experiments and easy to follow lessons.
- Elemental Science– Elemental Science is great because it uses living books or beloved resource materials. It includes STEAM projects and experiments for hands-on fun. It also gives the option for notebooking or lapbooking, perfect for children with ADHD.
The Best Homeschool Science Curriculum and Resources We Love
Social Studies
- Story of the World– We love SOTW as our homeschool history program. It incorporates literature, hands-on projects, and mapwork. The readings are short and the projects are engaging.
- Biblioplan– Biblioplan is a Christian history program. It also incorporates literature, hands-on projects, and mapwork. You can use several different spines, including SOTW. It’s wonderful if you want to use SOTW, but also incorporate Bible.
The Best History Projects to Make Learning Interactive
Strategies to Support ADHD Learners in Homeschooling
1. Create a Dedicated Learning Space
Designate a specific area for studying that is free from distractions. Keep supplies organized and easily accessible to help your child stay focused.
The Best Tips and Tricks for Easy Homeschool Organization
2. Incorporate Movement Breaks
Schedule regular breaks for physical activity to help release excess energy and refocus your child’s attention. Short walks, stretching, or even a dance party can be beneficial.
3. Utilize Visual Aids and Tools
Charts, graphs, and visual schedules can help your child understand and remember tasks better. Use color coding to organize subjects or assignments visually.
4. Establish Consistent Routines
Daily routines can provide structure and predictability, which are vital for children with ADHD. Include specific times for lessons, breaks, and play.
5. Emphasize Positive Reinforcement
Celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Use rewards or praise to motivate your child and boost their confidence.
Conclusion
Choosing the right homeschool curriculum for a child with ADHD is a crucial step toward fostering a successful and enjoyable learning experience. By focusing on multisensory, engaging, and flexible programs, you can create an environment that nurtures your child’s strengths and accommodates their challenges. Remember to adapt your approach as needed, and always prioritize open communication with your child to understand their needs better. With the right tools and strategies, homeschooling can be a fulfilling journey for both you and your child.