Understanding Organizational Skills Training by Richard Gallagher, Howard B. Abikoff, and Elana G. Spira
For children and teens with ADHD, staying organized can be one of the biggest challenges in school, social life, and even at home. Organizational Skills Training (OST) is an evidence-based program that helps children develop practical strategies for managing tasks, staying on top of deadlines, and keeping materials organized. In this post, we’ll explore what Organizational Skills Training entails, its benefits for children with ADHD, and how it can support parents in fostering a more structured and successful environment for their child.
What is Organizational Skills Training (OST)?
Organizational Skills Training is a structured program that targets the specific organizational challenges faced by children and teens with ADHD. Unlike typical strategies that focus solely on time management or basic task lists, OST is a comprehensive approach that addresses multiple aspects of organization, including task planning, prioritization, time management, and effective use of materials.
OST has a clear, step-by-step curriculum and has been shown through research to improve school performance, reduce stress, and empower children to take control of their responsibilities. It is typically delivered through individual or group sessions by trained clinicians, who work directly with the child and coach parents on how to support and reinforce the skills learned in OST.
Key Components of Organizational Skills Training
Task Planning and Prioritization
One of the core elements of OST is helping children learn how to break down large tasks into manageable steps. Kids are taught how to plan their tasks, prioritize what’s most important, and establish realistic timelines for completion. This includes using tools like planners, to-do lists, and calendars to create a visual outline of what they need to accomplish.
Time Management and Scheduling
Children with ADHD often struggle with time awareness and frequently underestimate how long a task will take. OST provides specific strategies to develop time management skills, such as estimating time, creating a daily schedule, and setting reminders for key tasks. Dr. Gallagher emphasizes the importance of building routines that help kids stick to schedules and avoid the last-minute rush.
Organization of Materials
Another major focus in OST is teaching children how to keep their materials organized, from school supplies to homework. This includes learning where to store items, developing a system to organize their backpack or workspace, and using labels or folders to ensure everything has its place. By building consistent habits, children feel less overwhelmed and more prepared.
Developing Executive Functioning Skills
Dr. Gallagher’s OST program helps children strengthen executive functioning, which is the mental skillset necessary for planning, organization, and following through with tasks. This includes impulse control, working memory, and flexibility—all skills that children with ADHD often need extra support to develop. Through practice and repetition, OST helps children internalize these skills so they can rely on them independently.
Parent Coaching and Involvement
A key feature of Dr. Gallagher’s program is that it includes parents in the process. Parents are coached on how to support their child’s organizational skills at home and provide encouragement and gentle reminders as needed. By working together, parents and children can build a supportive environment that reinforces positive organizational habits.
Benefits of Organizational Skills Training
1. Improved Academic Performance
By learning how to organize their tasks, keep track of assignments, and manage deadlines, children become more capable and confident in handling schoolwork. OST has been shown to improve grades and reduce school-related stress, as children no longer feel as overwhelmed by assignments or exams.
2. Greater Independence and Responsibility
OST empowers children to take ownership of their tasks and responsibilities. As they become more skilled in planning and organization, children experience a greater sense of independence, knowing they can rely on the strategies they've learned to succeed on their own.
3. Reduced Family Stress
When parents are no longer constantly reminding, nagging, or rushing to help their child complete assignments, family life becomes more peaceful. Parents can focus more on supporting rather than micromanaging, and children feel more confident in their abilities.
4. Enhanced Self-Esteem
Children with ADHD often struggle with self-esteem, particularly when they fall behind or face setbacks. OST helps children experience consistent successes and positive reinforcement, leading to a stronger sense of self-worth and the confidence to tackle new challenges.
5. Lifelong Skills
The skills taught in Organizational Skills Training are applicable beyond school. As children grow into teens and adults, these organizational skills translate into the workplace, social relationships, and daily life management.
Final Thoughts
Organizational Skills Training is an invaluable resource for parents and children with ADHD. By focusing on practical, evidence-based strategies, OST helps children overcome the unique challenges of ADHD and gives parents the tools they need to foster lasting success. Whether it’s keeping track of assignments, managing time effectively, or simply having an organized backpack, these skills can have a profound impact on a child’s confidence, independence, and overall well-being.
For parents, investing in OST can mean less stress and more quality time spent as a family. By equipping your child with these essential life skills, you’re empowering them to thrive both in school and in life.