Life with a young child can be overwhelming, but parenting a child with ADHD can bring forward its own set of challenges, and it can be difficult to know how to address these challenges in a beneficial way.
The good news is that children living with ADHD can lead fulfilling lives. With the help of their caregivers and some accessible tips and resources, parents can set their children up for success.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what ADHD entails and provide parents and guardians with a comprehensive guide they can follow at home.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD — Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder — is a condition that can cause children to be more hyperactive, impulsive, and distracted. They may have trouble following directions, need more frequent reminders to complete tasks, or seem like they’re not listening.
There are three subtypes of ADHD that are important to note to ensure you’re using the right resources for your needs.
- Inattentive ADHD: This subtype, formally referred to as ADD, typically includes symptoms of distraction or inattention but not impulsivity or hyperactivity.
- Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD: Shows symptoms of hyperactivity or impulse behavior but no signs of distraction.
- Combined: This subset includes those with a combination of impulsivity, distraction, and hyperactivity and is the most common of ADHD.
With the right behavior strategies, treatments, and support systems in place, parents can navigate life with their children with more ease.
Nurturing a Supportive Environment at Home
Creating a safe and structured environment in the home is essential for a child’s well-being, especially if the child is living with ADHD. These strategies can help parents create that space for their kids.
Creating a Structured Routine
Children with ADHD can benefit from a routine at home. Creating a consistent schedule, from what time they wake up to when they enjoy their meals, complete their homework, and go to bed is a great starting point. To make the process fun and inviting, create a stimulating visual chart or schedule they can follow along with.
Clear and Consistent Expectations
Giving clear instructions and setting expectations gives your child a path to follow. When you ask them to do something, make eye contact or touch their arm to get their attention. Keep your instructions simple and straightforward, and make sure to praise good behavior as often as possible.
Designated Study/Work Areas
Focusing on schoolwork isn’t easy for most children, but kids living with ADHD may have a more challenging time studying or completing their homework. Create a designated space to help them concentrate that’s free of distractions and is kept organized with all the supplies they need.
Working with Educators and School Support
Children with ADHD need as much support as they can receive, and at school that’s essential. Parents can work closely with their child’s teacher and the school’s administrators to ensure their child and every child with ADHD at their respective schools feel seen and heard.
- Keep Lines of Communication Open
- Discuss Challenges Your Child’s Facing
- Explore Individualized Education Plans
- Inquire About Teacher Training Options
- Engage in Regular Progress Check-Ins
Collaboration between parents and teachers ensures the child’s needs are always put first.
Therapeutic Approaches
Therapy is a mental health tool that can provide significant benefits for both adults and children. Children living with ADHD face unique obstacles that can benefit from a more personalized approach and a safe space to explore their strengths and needs.
Encouraging your child to work with a CASE Psychology licensed therapist can help set them up for success as they grow up. In therapy, they learn listening and attention skills, and tools for creating and fostering relationships. When difficult emotions arise, their therapist can provide the insights and tools they need to process and understand those emotions in a safe and comfortable environment. Learning to manage their ADHD productively is how they can create a strong foundation for their future.
Building Self-Esteem and Resilience
Nurturing your child’s self-esteem and building resilience is a crucial part of their well-being, now and into the future. This means focusing on empowering them and their strengths and helping to develop a positive self-image. Provide constructive feedback that can help them improve and encourage them to meet challenges head-on.
Conclusion
Parenting isn’t easy in most circumstances and when it comes to parenting a child with ADHD, having the right tools and resources in your toolbox can help you navigate these important years with more ease and comfort.