Parenting in general is one of the most difficult jobs you can have, not to mention parenting a child with ADHD. Symptoms typically include excessive fidgeting, is unable to wait for directions or frequently ignores directions, has trouble remembering recently learned facts and takes too much time or needs a lot of encouragement to complete routine tasks. The neurodevelopmental disorder can cause a great deal of strain on the family dynamic, but here a few quick tips for parenting a child with ADHD.
Keep Your Cool
Staying calm and collected with your child might not be the easiest task, but diffusing tense situations will work to your advantage. As described by George Kapalka, Ph.D., “Once the parent is out of control, the child’s anger becomes even more escalated, assuring that the interaction will result in a non-productive outcome”1. If you have a short temper, consider approaching tense situations in a different way.
Use Structure to Your Advantage
A set schedule is imperative for a child with ADHD, although implementing that schedule can seem daunting. For younger children, star charts can be a great way to set and reward a routine. Many website offer printable files that can be downloaded for free2. Encouraging good behavior through positive reinforcement is great for children with ADHD and can help them stick to a routine.
Educate Yourself & Your Family
The more you know as a parent of a child with ADHD, the better. Without an extensive knowledge of the disorder it can seem like your child is misbehaving or acting out on purpose3. Further knowledge of ADHD and child development can help you deal with problems more effectively and give you a better understanding of the symptoms your child may exhibit. Consider speaking to a specialist in the field, read literature on the disorder, and subscribe to online journals about ADHD in children.
Learning more about your child and how ADHD affects them is also important. With time, you’ll learn what times work for your child’s concentration and what might be a trigger for tension. Having siblings and other family members be familiar with the disorder will keep everyone on the same page and allow you to manage your child’s disorder together.
We are currently enrolling 4-5 year olds with ADHD in a clinical research study. If you’d like to learn more about this opportunity or any of our other studies, please fill out the form below and a member of our staff will reach out with more information.
References:
- “Parenting Kids with ADHD: 16 Tips to Tackle Common Challenges.” Psych Central, 17 July 2016, psychcentral.com/lib/parenting-kids-with-adhd-16-tips-to-tackle-common-challenges/.
- “Free Printable Behavior Charts | Customize online.” Reward Charts for Kids, rewardcharts4kids.com/behaviorcharts/.
- “Parenting Kids with ADHD: 16 Tips to Tackle Common Challenges.” Psych Central, 17 July 2016, psychcentral.com/lib/parenting-kids-with-adhd-16-tips-to-tackle-common-challenges/.
