As a parent of a preschooler who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you may frequently encounter the stress of something as simple and small as getting your child dressed in the morning. ADHD symptoms such as short attention span and trouble focusing can turn this seemingly routine task into a race against time, and gets you running to get your child into the clothes. Experts think that proper organization, discipline, and common sense can all help make mornings easier for you and your ADHD child.

Here are some simple steps that you can follow to get your ADHD kids ready for school:

Get Everything Organized

Pick out your child’s clothes the night before, and set them out in the same place each time. That way, children with ADHD will be less distracted during the morning dress up time, and so will you. However, avoid getting ADHD children involved in choosing what to wear.

Stick to Routine

All ADHD children seem to do better when their days have a particular structure. Mornings can be especially tough for ADHD children, because it is usually the time before their morning medication. They can be fussy at a time when you need to get out the door. You can help ADHD preschoolers by getting them to bed, getting them up, and getting them dressed at the same time, every day.

Check your methods of Discipline

Threats and losing your temper while trying to discipline ADHD children will only make things worse. ADHD children do better with goals and rewards. Treat your ADHD child with a favorite breakfast, if she helps get herself dressed on time. When you do everything for your child, it does not reinforce good behavior. Teach them to take responsibility for getting dressed and reward their efforts.

Avoid Distractions

When you’re trying to help your child get dressed in the morning, try to minimize any potential distractions. Turn off the TV, keep the room quiet, and keep other family members from interacting with your child until they get dressed.

Choose the right Underclothes

Snug-fitting underclothes may benefit some ADHD preschoolers by giving them a greater sense of comfort, but on the other hand, some ADHD children may prefer loose-fitting underwear. However, every ADHD child is different, so do what may work best for you.

Choose Clothes Carefully

ADHD children may be extra sensitive to the feel of their clothing. Known as tactile sensitivity, this type of hypersensitivity can make it even harder to dress an ADHD kid. Look for clothing styles that are designed with flat seams and made of fabrics that your child finds more comfortable to the touch.

Above all, keep it simple. Remember to dress your ADHD child in simple clothes, preferably without lots of buttons or other attached items. The simplest, most comfortable clothing work best to make your job easier.