ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is easy to miss in children as it cloaks itself under the shroud of tantrums. But, it can be challenging for parents to understand their child’s unique needs and requirements. The constant refusal to sit in one place and being unable to follow directions or make schedules may seem like normal tantrums, but they can be early signs of ADHD.
In such circumstances, asking yourself tough questions like ‘Does my child have ADHD?’ or ’ How can I help without interrupting?’ can steer you in the right direction. It will open pathways to seeking treatment and make adjustments in your life to support your child with ADHD. Know that early diagnosis and management can make it easier for you and your child to manage everyday challenges with more confidence and perseverance.
These are some practical ways to try.
Be Involved
Learn everything you can about ADHD to understand better why your child acts a certain way. It is very likely you will recognize behavior patterns (like getting upset when they cannot complete a task on time, etc.) that could stem from their condition. There’s always a possibility you may have to change their schools.
This will ensure your child can learn in ways that are easier for them to understand and retain. If your child is prescribed medication, give them their doses at a specific time. The more involved you are, the more your child will open up to you about their struggles. Eventually, it will make it easier for you to provide care, support, and assistance that helps them grow.
Limit Distractions
Getting easily distracted is a symptom of ADHD. It mostly happens as the ADHD brain may develop slower internal network connections. Due to this, it can become challenging for your child to stay focused on the task at a time. The distractions can be external and internal.
For instance, calling your child when immersed in doing homework or repeatedly asking them to move their toys can stress them out. In some cases, these instances may lead to aggressive outbursts. It is also encouraged that parents help their child with ADHD not latch on to particular emotions and instead focus on completing the task and enjoying the feeling of achievement and reward.
Encourage Thinking Out Loud
It is common for children with ADHD to act first and think later. When you, as a parent, encourage your kids to share their thoughts before acting, you will have a window of opportunity to correct them or help them understand the consequences of their actions.
Understanding their thinking patterns is vital to curbing their sudden urges to react. As they grow, they are more likely to reflect before taking action.
Spend Quality Time Together
Aside from engaging with their ADHD symptoms, make time to spend with your child. When children realize they are not ‘normal,’ they are likely to feel ashamed of themselves. It often makes them want to shut their feelings down and simply follow the lead.
By spending time with them, you can debunk such thoughts, understand their insecurities, and offer your unconditional love. Your encouragement, listening to them talk, and presence can bring a sea of change.
Establish Habits
Planning the day will give your child an idea of what to expect. It will avoid surprises for them while installing a sense of reassurance because all that needs to be done for the day is already laid out. There are various benefits to doing so, including helping your child decide where to put their energy, making the routine habit easier to persist in, and ensuring they are always making progress.
At the same time, establishing expectations clearly while focusing more on what your child should do (instead of focusing on what not to do) will help them keep in check. If your child finds it challenging to follow complex instructions, break them down into smaller commands and instructions.
Bottomline
Supporting your child with ADHD can be exhausting sometimes. The challenges may seem overwhelming some days. While seeking professional help is highly recommended, changing your ways of life can also be immensely beneficial. Your support, love, and encouragement during early formative years are vital; make sure you are not rushing your child into learning things.
