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Many parents are so focused on their
children that they neglect their own
mental needs. A therapist can help
manage your stress and anxiety as well as
your child’s.
Take breaks
You can’t be supportive 100 percent of
the time. It’s normal to become
overwhelmed or frustrated with yourself or
your child. Just as your child will need to
take breaks while studying, you’ll need
your own breaks as well. Scheduling alone
time is important for any parent. Good
break options include:
“Don’ts” for dealing with an ADHD child
going for a walk Don’t sweat the small stuff
going to the gym taking a relaxing bath Be willing to make some compromises with
your child. If your child has accomplished
two of the three chores you assigned,
consider being flexible with the third,
uncompleted task. It’s a learning process
and even small steps count.
Calm yourself
You can’t help an impulsive child if you
yourself are aggravated. Children mimic
the behaviours they see around them, so
if you remain composed and controlled
during an outburst, it will help your child to
do the same. Take time to breathe, relax,
and collect your thoughts before
attempting to pacify your child. The
calmer you are, the calmer your child will
become.
Don’t get overwhelmed and lash out
Remember that your child’s behaviour is
caused by a disorder. ADHD may not be
visible on the outside, but it’s a disability
and should be treated as such. When you
begin to feel angry or frustrated, remember
that your child can’t “snap out of it” or “just
be normal.”
Don’t be negative
It sounds simplistic, but take things one day
at a time and remember to keep it all in
perspective. What is stressful or
embarrassing today will fade away
tomorrow.
Don’t let your child or the disorder take
control
Remember that you are the parent and,
ultimately, you establish the rules for
acceptable behaviour in your home. Be
patient and nurturing, but don’t allow
yourself to be bullied or intimidated by your
child’s behaviours.
Article by Mehnaaz Mohamed