In today’s blog post, I share 10-holiday gift ideas to enhance attention and focus and help students stay motivated during online learning. For many kids making the transition from in-person to online classes has not been easy. It has been especially challenging for kids with ADHD and executive function weaknesses. For this 2020 holiday season, why not give them things that they did not know they needed but will soon learn that they can’t live without.
Gifts that increase Motivation, Decrease Stress, and simplify learning from home.
Below is a list of my top ten items that range in price and uniqueness. I have added a description that offers ideas and ways to utilize them. I found the items on Amazon, but I always recommend googling for price checks.
- Rainbow Learn To Tell Time Analog Clock: Many kids with ADHD struggle to understand the passage of time. Analog clocks offer a visual and help them grasp the concept and make the time more manageable. I chose this clock because of its appeal to young and older kids. If your child needs help learning to tell time, this clock will help, and the vibrant colors will engage older kids who need a reminder to look at the clock.
- Panda Planner Pro: This planner is great for teens through college. It’s easy to set up simple habits and routines to stay on task and be mindful. You can find this planner on Amazon. However, if you go to the companies website, you will find other useful time management tricks and tools.
- PaperMate Special Edition 26 Colored Pens. I loved this special edition box, and I know your kids will too. Using colored pens while studying is just another way to engage the brain during long hours of online learning and studying. You would be surprised how excited students can get over such an easy gift.
- SYOSIN Professional Single Resistance Exercise Band, Non-Slip and Comfortable Handles with Door Anchor. These are great for brain breaks and can also be used while watching a zoom class. Kids can use them while they are standing or sitting. Follow the instructions on the box.
- Warmies Wrap. I love all of the Warmies products, but they are especially great for kids and teens who become anxious and overwhelmed with lots of reading and school work. Inhale happy thoughts and exhale an increased state of calm by laying the warmie across your shoulders. If you have a child who loves stuffed animals, they may enjoy the stuffed animal warmies more.
- Mini cycle Go When you are stuck on zoom for hours, this can be a lifesaver. It is also great for homework time, reading time, any time. When you move, your brain grooves. It folds up and easily fits under a table.
- Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands with Instruction Guide and Carry Bag, Set of 5 Simply stretch these over the front two legs of a chair to increase focus and attention while letting kids move while learning.
- Aroma Dough Therapy Dough – Spearmint Essential Oil Play Dough – Gluten-Free & Non-Allergenic – This dough is infused with essential oils, which I love, and comes in a variety of scents. It is modeled after clay and can be used as a fidget to help stay engaged. At the same time, the aromatherapy awakens the senses and helps increase attention and focus.
- Sony WHXB900N Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth Over the Ear Headset – Black (WH-XB900N/B) These are pricier but great. I also included a less expensive pair for younger kids. AdjustableNoise Cancelling Headphones Dr.meter Kids Protective Earmuffs with Noise Blocking Children Earmuffs for Sleeping and Studying. Both sets are great, especially great if you have multiple learners in one room. The noise-canceling feature will decrease distractions.
- Revolution 101 Balance Board Trainer It is designed to improve balance and body control for board sports like skateboarding. An excellent option for the teen or college kid who needs to move during an online zoom lesson. This model is for older kids, but they have similar balance boards for younger kids too. I just recommend supervision for the younger kids.
These are just a few of my favorite things. I have so many more ideas and ways to make smart kids smarter. These are challenging times for parents and kids. My goal is to provide you with valuable information that is simple and easy to implement. If you need more assistance, I encourage you to click on the link below and schedule a free 10-minute phone call with me and let me help.