Do you want to know how to help your child with their ADHD? As a parent, you not only need to know what you should do as a parent but how to help your child deal with this diagnosis as well. You are their best advocate and the best person to help your child with their ADHD. These are some ways you can do that.
The very first thing you can to help your child with their ADHD is treat it like the health problem it is. ADHD is not something they can help that they have. Being the parent of a child with ADHD, I have always explained that ADHD is like being an asthmatic or having an allergy. It is something they did not choose and cannot help. Your attitude will have a great impact on the attitude they have about it.
ADHD is nothing to be ashamed of. Let your child know they can talk to you about it at any time. When it is an open subject, it will foster an environment that encourages them to share their struggles with you. They will feel more comfortable asking questions and telling you how they are doing. This is an important part of making sure their treatment is working successfully.
While ADHD is something that your child has to learn to deal with, they should never be allowed to use that as their crutch. It isn’t an excuse for not following the rules or bad behavior. You can and should always take their ADHD into account, but don’t allow them to use it to slide by with things they shouldn’t do. The goal should be helping them find ways to deal with situations, not giving them a free pass to behave poorly. Your child will actually appreciate you having standards and rules in the long run.
Organization is something that many children with ADHD struggle with. You will probably need to help them come up with some organizational systems. Make sure to go for simplicity. If it is a straightforward, simple system, they will be more likely to be able to work with it well. You can help them find organization in many areas of their life.
Children with ADHD sometimes suffer from low self-esteem because of the stigma that can come along with this disorder. While the stigma is lessening, it is still important to be aware this can be an issue. Make it a point to build your child up. Help them realize all of their wonderful traits. Encourage them in their talents.
It is important to ask for your child’s input on issues concerning their ADHD. Communicate with them frequently. Ask them how they feel their medication is working. Ask them what they are still struggling with. This will help you to know what areas need tweaked.
There is no reason that children with ADHD can’t reach their goals and dreams. Encourage them to dream big. Make sure they know that their ADHD may be something they have to work with but it needn’t stop them. Point them toward role models that have ADHD. Believing in themselves is an important factor.
How do you help your child deal with their ADHD? I would love your feedback. We can all learn from each other.