Kids music lessons can have great benefits for children who have ADHD. Music offers them a creative outlet while stimulating the parts of the brain that control things like focus and concentration. However, even when your child enjoys their music lessons, it can be hard to get a child who is easily distracted to settle down and focus on practicing their music. Take a look at some tips that will help your child with ADHD get the practice they need and succeed in their music lessons.

Eliminate Distracting Items from the Practice Area

Find a place in your house for your child to practice where they're not likely to be distracted by something while they're practicing. Children with ADHD are easily visually stimulated. If they can see their toys or video games from where they're practicing, they may be distracted by thoughts of those things.

It may be best not to have your child practice in their bedroom if that's where their major distractions are. Instead, clear a space in the living room, den, or other area of the house just for music practice.

Set Small Goals

Your child may not be able to sit still and practice for an entire hour at a time, at least at first. Avoid setting unrealistic goals that your child can't easily reach. Instead, set them up to succeed early and often by setting small goals for them to meet. When your child realizes that they can reach their goals, they'll be more invested in working to meet the next one.

Timers and clocks can often be a distraction for children with ADHD. They can end up focusing on the time instead of the activity. Instead, set goals by ability. Can they master this chord or play to the end of that song? This eliminates concern about time and frees your child's mind up to think only about the music. Don't forget to celebrate when your child achieves each goal!

Stick to A Structured Schedule

It's fine to arrange your child's practice schedule in a way that works for them. For example, you might have your child practice in the morning if they find it easier to focus then or break practice time into small chunks throughout the day if it's too difficult for them to concentrate for an extended period of time. But once you find a schedule that works, it's important to stick to it.

Children with ADHD need structure. A clear, predictable schedule helps them train their brains to focus on a specific activity at a specific time. Set a schedule that works for your child and avoid interruptions to it whenever possible.

As your child's musical ability grows, you'll see their confidence in their ability to focus and learn grow as well. This can increase their success in other areas of their lives as well.