Parenting a Child With ADHD

Children with ADHD are more impulsive, hyperactive, and inattentive than children of the same age typically are. Children with ADHD have a tougher time learning the techniques for managing their attention, conduct, emotions, and activities. They often behave in ways that are challenging for parents to handle as a consequence.

For instance, children with ADHD who are inattentive might:

seem disoriented, appear not to be paying attention, struggle to pay attention, struggle to follow instructions, require many reminders, put little effort into their education, and struggle to stay organized

Children with ADHD who are energetic may:

When playing, they fidget and seem unable to sit still, climb, jump, or roughhouse. They also hurry rather than taking their time, make stupid blunders, and are always on the go (constantly in motion)

Children with ADHD who are impulsive may:

interject often and say

do things without thinking, despite knowing better, that they shouldn't

possess emotional outbursts, lose their anger, or exhibit a lack of self-control and have issues with sharing, waiting, or taking turns

Parents may not first recognize that these behaviors are symptoms of ADHD. A youngster may seem to be misbehaving only. Parents who have ADHD may experience tension, annoyance, or contempt.

Parents could experience shame about how other people perceive their child's conduct. They can ponder if they were the cause of it. However, children with ADHD struggle to develop the ability to regulate their attention, behavior, and activities.

Parents who are educated on ADHD and the best parenting techniques may support their children's growth and academic success.

How Can Parents Help?

Parenting is just as crucial to treating ADHD as any other aspect of care. The way parents react may either improve or exacerbate ADHD.

If your kid has been identified as having ADHD:

Be active. Do your research on ADHD. Observe the recommendations for therapy that your child's doctor makes. Attend all of the prescribed treatment sessions. Give your child's ADHD medications at the appointed time if they are prescribed. Never alter the dosage without first consulting your doctor. Medication for your kid should be kept out of the reach of others in a secure location.

Know the effects of ADHD on your kid. Each kid is unique. Determine the issues your kid is experiencing due to ADHD. Some children need to practice listening and paying attention. People need to slow down more often. Ask the therapist working with your kid for advice on how you can help them practice and become better.

One item at a time, pay attention to training your youngster. Avoid attempting to do everything at once. Begin modestly. Focus on only one item. Thank your youngster for trying.

collaboration with your child's school

Find out whether your kid needs an IEP or a 504 plan by speaking with their teacher. Meet often with instructors to discuss your child's progress. Help your kid succeed by collaborating with the instructor.

Join forces with others to gain awareness and support. Join CHADD or another ADHD support group to stay up to speed on treatments and other information.

To determine whether you have ADHD. A family history of ADHD is common. Children with ADHD may have parents or other relatives who are unaware of their condition. When parents with ADHD are properly identified and treated, it makes them more effective parents.

discipline with compassion and intention. Learn which forms of punishment work best for kids with ADHD and which might exacerbate the condition. Ask the therapist working with your kid to give you advice on how to handle their actions. Children who have ADHD may be sensitive to criticism. It is better to correct their conduct in a manner that is friendly and encouraging rather than harsh.

Clarify your expectations. Talk to your kid about how you want them to behave before you go anywhere. Instead of responding to what your kid does, put more effort into teaching them what to do.

Discussion on it. Don't be afraid to discuss ADHD with your kid. Assist children in realizing that having ADHD is not their fault and that they may find solutions to the issues it presents.

every day, spend special time together. Even if it's only for a little while, schedule time to chat with your youngster and engage in enjoyable, stress-relieving activities. Devote all of your attention to your kid. Congratulate effective actions. Don't give your kid excessive praise, but do compliment them when they behave well. Say something like, "You're taking turns so well," as your youngster waits for their turn.

The most important thing is how you feel about your kid. Children with ADHD may believe they are failing others, acting improperly, or otherwise not being "good." By being tolerant, accepting, and patient, you may safeguard your child's self-esteem. Let your kid know that you think highly of them and appreciate everything that they have to offer. Maintain a caring and healthy connection with your kid to develop resilience.