Treasure Hunt

Create five clues to search for treasure. Your clues can be simple, such as "look in silverware drawer" for young children, or more complicated for older children. Write each clue down and place in an envelope. Each clue should lead to the spot where the next clue is hidden.

Using the homework example, each night your child completes their homework, they will receive a clue. At the end of the week, they have a chance to have all five clues to go on a "treasure hunt." On Friday evening, set out all the clues and one last one with a reward or prize. Let your child follow the trail of the clues to reach the prize.

Card Cut

This game is often good for older children. We used this game when my son entered high school and was afraid that he would not be able to keep up. Using a deck of cards, we gave each card a monetary value. For example, cards numbered 2 through 9 would be worth $1.00 each, 10 through K would be worth $2.00 each and A would be worth $3.00. For each A that he brought home (could be from a test, quiz, homework, projects, or any other school work), he got to cut the cards and received the value for the card. We would keep a tally mark for each A throughout the week and on Friday evening he would get to cut the cards and receive his money to go out with friends. This game gave him a boost of confidence as he made the extra effort to try to get the "A" and gain a card cut.

Paper Dolls and Tea Parties

This game works well for young girls. Make a paper doll out of construction paper. Use additional paper to make a skirt, shirt, shoes, socks, and hat. Each day that homework was completed, my daughter got to add one piece of clothing to the doll. When the doll was completely dressed, we took down the china tea set and had a tea party, complete with fresh baked cupcakes.

I hope that you find these games enjoyable for you and your child. Have fun and if you have any additional ideas for helping to motivate children with ADHD, please add a comment and let us know about them.