ADVICE_______________________________________________________________________
Other “do’s” for coping with ADHD
Create structure
Make a routine for your child and
stick to it every day. Establish rituals
around meals, homework, playtime,
and bedtime. Simple daily tasks, such
as having your child lay out his or her
clothes for the next day, can provide
essential structure.
Break tasks into manageable pieces
Try using a large wall calendar to help
remind a child of their duties. Colour
coding chores and homework can keep
your child from becoming overwhelmed
with everyday tasks and school
assignments. Even morning routines should
be broken down into discrete tasks.
Simplify and organize your child’s life
Create a special, quiet space for your
child to read, do homework, and take a
break from the chaos of everyday life.
Keep your home neat and organized so
that your child knows where everything
goes. This helps reduce unnecessary
distractions.
Limit distractions
Children with ADHD welcome easily
accessible distractions. Television, video
games, and the computer encourage
impulsive behaviour and should be
regulated. By decreasing time with
electronics and increasing time doing
engaging activities outside the home,
your child will have an outlet for built-up
energy.
Encourage exercise
Physical activity burns excess energy in
healthy ways. It also helps a child focus
their attention on specific movements.
This may decrease impulsivity. Exercise
may also help to improve concentration,
decrease the risk for depression and
anxiety, and stimulate the brain in healthy
ways. Many professional athletes have
ADHD.
Experts believe that athletics can help a
child with ADHD find a constructive way
to focus their passion, attention, and
energy.
Regulate sleep patterns
Bedtime may be an especially difficult for
children suffering from ADHD. Lack of sleep
exacerbates inattention, hyperactivity, and
recklessness. Helping your child get better
sleep is important. To help them get better rest,
eliminate stimulants like sugar and caffeine,
and decrease television time. Establish a
healthy, calming bedtime ritual.
Encourage out-loud thinking
Children with ADHD can lack self-control. This
causes them to speak and act before thinking.
Ask your child to verbalize their thoughts and
reasoning when the urge to act out arises. It’s
important to understand your child’s thought
process in order to help him or her curb
impulsive behaviours.
Promote wait time
Another way to control the impulse to speak
before thinking is to teach your child how to
pause a moment before talking or replying.
Encourage more thoughtful responses by
helping your child with homework assignments
and asking interactive questions about a
favourite television show or book.
Believe in your child
Your child likely doesn’t realize the stress that
their condition can cause. It’s important to
remain positive and encouraging. Praise your
child’s good behaviour so they know when
something was done right. Your child may
struggle with ADHD now, but it won’t last
forever. Have confidence in your child and be
positive about their future.
Find individualized counselling
You can’t do it all. Your child needs your
encouragement, but they also need
professional help. Find a therapist to work with
your child and provide another outlet for them.
Don’t be afraid to seek assistance if you need
it.