Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, more commonly known as ADHD, is a chronic condition that affects millions of children and may continue into adulthood. ADHD includes persistent problems such as impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, and difficulty sustaining attention.
Symptoms of ADHD in children
Every child is unique. Conditions like ADHD, Autism, or Down Syndrome should not only be a label.
Some of the common symptoms of ADHD in children include:
- Inability to focus on tasks or activities for too long.
- Difficulty organizing tasks, activities, and belongings.
- Absent-mindedness with daily activities or responsibilities.
- Ignorance of tasks that require constant mental effort or a longer attention span.
- Excessive fidgeting, restlessness, and hyperactive behavior.
- Excessive talking, interruption between conversations, difficulty with waiting.
- Actions without consideration of the results of fear of falls or accidents and lack of hesitation during risky activities.
- Excessive talking, particularly during inappropriate times or situations where the expectation is to remain silent.
Here are 10 Tips for Parents to Help Their Child with ADHD
Educating themselves
Understanding the condition is extremely important for parents before they can opt for any treatment options. Parents should learn about the causes of ADHD, the symptoms, how they can affect a child’s daily life, and the treatment options. The proper and sufficient knowledge helps the parents empathize with the child’s struggles and react accurately.
Setting a routine
According to research and various other articles on the internet, children with ADHD seem to benefit from a routine. Establishing a daily routine for meals, homework, playtime, and bedtime helps children understand and follow a routine. Providing the child with a visual schedule has been proven to successfully aid in maintaining routines.
Setting clear expectations
Parents must efficiently communicate expectations regarding behavior, chores, and academic tasks to children. Breaking them into smaller, manageable steps makes it easier for the child to accomplish those goals. Once a child completes a specific task, they should receive proper positive reinforcement.
Provision of Structure and Organization
Creative techniques such as color-coded folders, labels, and organizers help children become more organized. Minimizing environmental distractions such as noise or movements could also benefit the child.
Encouragement of Physical Activity
Children can burn off excess energy and reduce hyperactivity through physical activities. Finding something the child enjoys and is interested in helps to maintain focus.
Usage of Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is known to have had positive results. Confidence in children is developed through positive remarks and affectionate rewards. These have been proven as incentives for children to do something good.
Development of Coping Strategies
Children could learn ways to manage impulsivity and improve attention span. Focus in children could also be achieved through techniques such as deep breathing, short breaks, and other mind-related exercises.
Limited Screentime
Research shows that ADHD symptoms have increased as a result of excessive screen time. Parents should implore their children to use the screens for a limited period by getting them involved in activities that promote social interaction instead.
Work with Teachers and Schools
Open communication with their teachers and guardians helps with collaboration in strategies that support their
learning and behavioral skills.
Seek Out Professional Help
Consultation with psychologists, pediatricians, behavioral therapists, or other healthcare professionals who specialize in treating ADHD may prove beneficial when treating a child with the condition. Experts provide effective treatments, guidance, and tailored support according to their needs.
In addition to these tips, parents need to practice self-care. Caring for a child with ADHD can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally. Make time to recharge and seek support from other parents or support groups who understand what you are going through.
Counseling for Parents and Teens in Huntsville
Aspire Counseling, a mental health clinic in Huntsville, often works with stressed-out parents. Our trained mental health counselors use evidence-based techniques to help you identify your values as a parent and find new ways forward consistent with those values.
We also offer specialized Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) evaluations and ADHD counseling, along with counseling services for teens and adolescents with ADHD. Our counseling focuses on teaching self-regulation skills, particularly when ADHD symptoms interfere with their ability to succeed in school or maintain interpersonal relationships. Aspire Counseling has multiple therapists who specialize in working with children and teenagers. We are here to support you. Let us know if we can help. Schedule now!
