Dealing With ADHD Children
Children with ADHD typically find it nearly impossible to sit still or focus on one topic for very long. When you're the caretaker of a child with ADHD, it can be very difficult to go through the normal daily routines without some sort of problem surfacing. Below, you'll get some very helpful information on how to deal with ADHD children.
Children with ADHD typically find it nearly impossible to sit still or focus on one topic for very long. When you're the caretaker of a child with ADHD, it can be very difficult to go through the normal daily routines without some sort of problem surfacing. Below, you'll get some very helpful information on how to deal with ADHD children.
Step 1
Insist that your child takes his medication as directed. Many children who have been diagnosed with ADHD are on prescription medication to help them control their symptoms. It's very important that the child takes his medication regularly as scheduled by his pediatrician. Keep the child on a consistent routine, taking his medication at the same time every day.
Step 2
Create a daily routine. Since ADHD children can become upset with the slightest change, it is important that they are on a daily routine and stick to it as closely as possible. Plan your day and your child's day from the time you wake up until the time you go to bed. Each second doesn't have to be accounted for, but the major things should be planned, including breakfast, outdoor time, lunch, activities, appointments, dinner, bath time and bedtime. By keeping this schedule, you can minimize upsetting behavior and the child will have a secure routine she can count on.
Step 3
Use behavior modification. Behavior modification is one of the best ways to deal with ADHD children. When the child displays positive behavior, give him a reward. The reward might be a sticker, a ribbon or a piece of candy. If the child displays negative behavior, remove privileges. You might take away television time or other privileges. This method for dealing with behavior will quickly show the child what is acceptable and what is not.
Step 4
Stay calm and relaxed. When dealing with a child who has ADHD, it's easy to become frustrated from time to time. It's important that you don't let this frustration show, as it will only upset the child and create more problems. To keep calm while dealing with the child, practice deep breathing and tell him to count slowly in his mind. Other techniques for staying calm include meditation, yoga, massage, walking and tai chi.
Step 5
Seek support for yourself and the child. Having a great support base is essential to help you deal with an ADHD child. One great group is C.H.A.D.D. (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder). Stay proactive as far as learning as much as you can about ADHD and receiving tips and suggestions for handling symptoms of the condition. You can learn more about C.H.A.D.D. at http://www.chadd.org/.
