Forgetfulness is another common symptom of ADHD. This symptom causes significant disruption in children’s daily lives. Consider this example, you tell your child to go clean his/her room, but halfway there he has forgotten where he was going or what he planning to do. Although this may appear to be defiant behavior, it is more likely to be the result of forgetfulness. Children with ADHD experience a great deal of difficulty holding information and thoughts in their minds. Although we don’t know the root cause of this difficulty, it is likely due to working memory deficits. Working memory is the part of memory that we utilize when we are listening and trying to retain in our minds what we are hearing. Here are some tips that will help your child get through his day and manage forgetfulness.
- As a parent it is important to remind yourself that forgetfulness is a symptom of ADHD and is not purposeful non-compliance. This will help you be more patient with your child.
- Provide your child with short and clear instructions. You should provide your child with only one verbal instruction at a time. After this is successfully completed provide your child with another verbal instruction and so on, until the task is completed.
- When you give your child verbal instructions make sure that you are looking at them and that he is look at you.
- After providing your child with a verbal instruction it is important to ask him/her to repeat back the instruction you have given. This will help to clarify if he/she heard it correctly and assist him memorize the instruction by saying it out loud.
- Be sure to praise your child after he completes each task.
- Creating a to-do list, which outlines tasks that your child needs to complete and the order in which it needs to be completed can be very helpful. It is important to remember that to-do list should be age appropriate.
- Have your child cross off tasks as they are completed will give her/him a sense of accomplishment and control.
- Remember it is important to try an normalize your child’s forgetfulness by helping him realize that everyone experiences some difficulty with forgetfulness from time to time.
Conclusion
Forgetfulness can be one of the most frustrating and misunderstood symptoms of ADHD, especially for parents trying to support their child through daily routines. However, recognizing that this behavior stems from working memory challenges—not defiance—can shift your approach and foster more patience and empathy. Using strategies like breaking down tasks into small steps, making eye contact during instructions, encouraging your child to repeat directions, and using age-appropriate to-do lists can significantly improve daily functioning.
If forgetfulness continues to impact your child’s emotional well-being or daily life, professional support may be beneficial. Our Counseling Services can help families better understand ADHD and develop coping strategies together. Additionally, Occupational Therapy Services—including both pediatric occupational therapy and occupational therapy for adults—can support the development of executive functioning skills such as organization, memory, and focus. Participation in a Social Skills Group may also provide your child with structured opportunities to practice communication and memory strategies with peers in a supportive setting. Contact us now!
With the right tools, understanding, and support, your child can learn to manage forgetfulness and build confidence in their daily activities. If you or someone you know would like more information contact our office at (503) 352-0240.
Yours in Health,
New Horizons Wellness Services13333 SW 68th Pkwy,
Tigard, OR 97223
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New Horizons Wellness Services provides a true multidisciplinary approach to mental & physical health treatments for children, adults and families.