Beyond Akeela was designed from its inception to be a ADHD transition program for teens who learn differently. There are many ways to prepare teens with ADHD for college, and we look at the transition in four different areas. Social Development, Executive Function, Acts of Daily Living, and Self-Advocacy.
Executive Function in Beyond Akeela’s ADHD Transition Program
Executive function is a critical component of any students success in college. Many students access accommodations for executive function support in high school through IEPs or 504s. They must learn how to adapt that support and skill set to a new learning environment in a college setting. College experiences are filled with independent decision making during the vast amount of unstructured time students are tasked to manage. Beyond Akeela’s ADHD transition program allows teens opportunities to practice their executive function skills in a college setting before taking the leap to school.
Time Management
Beyond Akeela teens are given a schedule customized to their preferences at the start of each session. They are encouraged to follow the schedule independently and manage their time to take care of the various responsibilities they have, while being punctual to activities and gatherings. Teens have successes and failures as they manage their time, and learn to adapt their executive function strategies to a college setting.
Organization
Teens at Beyond Akeela are responsible for managing their belongings and prepare for each day independently. Staff members provide strategies that help teens stay organized throughout the day. Visuals and checklists are often key items that campers use to recall what needs to be packed and the steps to follow in a routine.
Self-Regulation
Beyond Akeela teens are challenged to self-regulate through exercising their independence. They make decisions about what to eat, activities to participate in, and manage their sleep schedules without interference from staff. They are constantly making choices that effect their experience, and learn from the natural rewards and consequences of those choices.
Do you have a teen with ADHD preparing to transition into a post-secondary program or college? We’d love to chat and see how we can help!
