ADD and ADHD are so prevalent these days, chances are you know someone that has been affected by this diagnosis. When faced with impulsive behavior and high energy levels at home and school, it often means that there will also be lots of challenges. I know personally, that it’s never easy but it definitely doesn’t mean the end of the world, either. Here are ways to help you make it work when you’re parenting a child with ADHD.
Make Sure You Have Their Attention
Children with ADHD have a short attention span and often don’t process multiple requests quickly. Instead of rattling off a list of things you’d like them to do, make sure you have their attention first. After that, ask the child to repeat what you’ve requested and to do only what they can manage. Too many choices can be distracting and throw them off-task.
Repeat if Necessary
This personally burns me up, but I’ve learned that giving directions two times or more is necessary. You may want to even thank them for listening and be SURE to give them a verbal response or sometimes a big hug showing them how proud you are that they “got it right”!
Organization is KEY!
Many children with ADD are often think erratically when it comes to problem solving. The have difficulty keeping their thoughts and priorities – even the simplest ones – in proper sequence. So, the best thing for them is structure, organization of materials and supplies and predictability. Help them succeed daily by establishing routines and itineraries and also provide them with storage and organization, so they can habitually and repeatedly put their “stuff” in the same place. This equips them with the tools need to accomplish the most menial tasks.
Right then…Right there!
For this group of children, it is especially important to act right away with either praise or punishment. It’s not really a good idea for long periods of time to lapse before s/he gets feedback for their actions. Rule number ONE: remember to focus on the behavior and NOT the child!
Burn Baby Burn!
If your child has the “H” in ADHD, then energy is always on POWER BOOST! Because of this, they truly benefit from daily constructive tasks, as well as fun and creative activities. Anything that includes running, exercises, sports, etc. are ideal. This, of course, allows them to burn some of that excessive energy. It’s a win-win with organized sports because they get to see the importance of teamwork and how their actions affect others.
Take a Deep Breath
In addition to patience, a little extra TLC, communication and consistency – our beloved kids are just that….kids! Let’s continue to love and cherish them every single day but as parents, this is done most times AFTER we breathe deeply and relax!
BMWK – Do you have more pointers to help other parents?