If you’re searching “how to teach homeschool for severe ADHD,” you’re probably exhausted, second-guessing yourself, and wondering if you’re doing enough. I’ve been there. But the truth is, you can homeschool a child with ADHD successfully—it just looks very different than traditional schooling.
Our Story with Severe ADHD and Dyslexia
Homeschooling a child with severe ADHD isn’t for the faint of heart. When you add moderate dyslexia to the mix—as we have with my 13-year-old—it can feel overwhelming. There are days when getting through a single math page feels like climbing a mountain, and others when focus clicks for a few beautiful moments, reminding me why homeschooling was the right choice.
Let’s talk about what’s working for us and the strategies that have made our homeschool calmer, more productive, and more connected.
1. Start with Structure, Not Strictness
Children with severe ADHD thrive on predictability—but not rigidity. Instead of an hour-by-hour schedule, try using visual routines that give structure without pressure.
For example:
- Morning checklist: breakfast, meds (if applicable), movement, short reading lesson
- Midday: hands-on or outdoor learning
- Afternoon: short bursts of independent work followed by something enjoyable
We use a timer and short lesson blocks (10–20 minutes max), which helps prevent frustration for both of us.
💡 Tip: Don’t aim to replicate school. Your homeschool can be flexible and still meet academic goals.
2. Movement Is Part of Learning
Kids with ADHD often need to move in order to think. Instead of fighting it, build it in.
Try:
- Reading lessons on a yoga ball
- Spelling words with chalk outside
- Jumping jacks or trampoline breaks between subjects
Movement doesn’t interrupt learning—it fuels it.
3. Choose ADHD-Friendly Curriculum (That Actually Works)
The best ADHD homeschool curricula are hands-on, multi-sensory, and flexible. Check out my blog posts about our favorite ADHD and dyslexia friendly curricula.
4. Use ADHD Teaching Strategies That Reduce Overload
When teaching at home, simplify everything. Kids with ADHD process a lot at once, and too much stimulation leads to frustration.
Try these adjustments:
- Short lessons (10–15 minutes max per subject)
- Breaks every 30 minutes
- Audiobooks instead of silent reading when possible
- Visual timers and checklists to stay on track
- Minimal distractions (headphones, quiet space, clutter-free desk)
You’ll find your child learns more when you do less.
5. Focus on Connection Over Perfection
The heart of homeschooling a child with severe ADHD is connection. When our relationship is calm and trusting, everything else goes smoother.
It’s okay to take a break when both of you are melting down. It’s okay to scrap the day and go outside. You’re building a lifelong learner, not just completing a checklist.
Remember: ADHD doesn’t define your child—it just changes how they learn.
6. Encourage Independence (Gradually)
As my 13-year-old grows, we’re slowly shifting toward more independent learning tools—with lots of guidance.
Some great tools include:
- Checklist on a white board for simple daily task lists
- Voice-to-text for long or overwhelming assignments
- Reward systems (like screen time or extra outdoor time) for completed work
Building independence helps kids feel capable and reduces power struggles.
7. Remember That Progress Looks Different
Some days you’ll see big wins—reading fluency, math facts remembered, focus that lasts an hour. Other days you’ll wonder if anything is sinking in. That’s okay. ADHD progress is not linear.
Keep track of growth in small ways: reading logs, journal notes, or end-of-month reflections. When you look back, you’ll see how far your child has come.
Encouragement for the Hard Days
Homeschooling a child with severe ADHD (and dyslexia) isn’t about having perfect lessons—it’s about building a life that works for your child.
On the tough days, remind yourself:
- Your child is safe, loved, and seen.
- You are not failing—you’re adapting.
- You’re giving your child what school couldn’t: the space to be themselves.
You’ve got this, even if it doesn’t look like anyone else’s homeschool.
You’re Not Alone in This ADHD Homeschool Adventure
If you’re still wondering how to teach homeschool with severe ADHD, know that the answer is slowly, creatively, and with grace.
Our kids don’t fit the mold—and that’s okay. Homeschooling gives us the freedom to build a model that fits them.
For More Homeschool Encouragement
Check out our Youtube channel. It’s where I started sharing our ADHD homeschooling journey.