Toddler or teen-ager, no child is immune to melt-downs, malfunctions and general malcontent. However, the ADHD child takes it all to extremes, and this leads their parents to the breaking point.
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, affects 2-3% of the population. It is more common in boys, and it is thought that any given classroom with 30 students will have between one and three ADHD children.
These statistics are little comfort to the parent living with an ADHD child. Their life is often chaos. Emotions run the gamut, tensions run high, and a peaceful home seems like a far-off dream.
The decision to medicate, regulate diet, or attempt behavioral therapy is a very personal choice, and not one to be taken lightly. Whatever long-term treatment course a family decides to undertake, most are searching for help now. While the following tips are not a substitute for a treatment plan, they may help to save everyone’s sanity in the meantime.
#1 – Routines are the Key: The ADHD child needs to know what to expect at every turn. Every attempt should be made to stick to a schedule at all times. Chores, homework, hygiene and bedtime should be clearly outlined and well enforced. When a deviation from routine is anticipated, discuss this with your child as early as possible. Be clear on what the change will be and what is expected of them. A simple, consistent routine can act as a security blanket for your child.
#2 – Consistency, Consistency, Consistency: Just as your child needs a predictable routine, they also need to know what to expect from you. If mild transgressions are sometimes met with avoidance and other times met with discipline, the ADHD child’s brain will be unable to process the discrepancies. Take time to outline the rewards and consequences of several actions and then make sure to stick to it. Predictable discipline is far more effective than punishing in anger.
#3 – Praise At Every Turn: Your child knows they are “different.” They may have been teased at school or on the playground. ADHD children need to know that you love them unconditionally, despite their perceived faults. Never miss an opportunity to “catch them” doing something good. Praise is always cherished.
#4 – Anticipate: Know your child’s triggers. Are they prone to outbursts when they get hungry? Be sure to keep a snack in easy reach. Do they tend to have a tantrum if they are denied a toy at the supermarket? Pre-correct beforehand. The more you know about what causes the behavior, the easier it is to quell. Don’t be afraid to remove your child from a situation if you see problems on the horizon.
#5 – Love and Laugh: This is by far the most useful piece of advice. ADHD is stressful for you and your child. Sing a silly song. Dance in the rain. Celebrate your child’s un-birthday. Love them hard and laugh with them often. It makes all the difference in the world.