Keeping it together all day long can be challenging for kids with ADHD, so here’s how to set things up, so home is a place where they can let loose, recharge and relax, and where you can all enjoy family time together. While experts say no method of discipline will eliminate ADHD symptoms altogether, the following techniques can be helpful in teaching kids who have ADHD learns to follow rules and instructions.
1) Use rewards and consequences:
Good discipline for kids with ADHD is closely tied to behavioral therapy strategies: When they act appropriately, kids are rewarded with privileges. When they don’t achieve their goals, there are consequences. Some experts recommend a token system, in which kids can earn points for completing tasks (for example, making the bed), lose points for misbehavior, (ignoring rules) and spend points for privileges (staying up 30 minutes past bedtime).
2) Create checklists:
Before a kid can read, make magnetic images of each task they needed to complete prior to going to school, such as brushing their teeth and getting dressed, and put these on a magnetic board in each child’s room. For older kids, you can make simple checklists with a breakdown of the tasks in their routine and boxes for them to check as they complete each one.
3) Catch good behavior:
Noticing and praising good behaviors, like when your child stays in their seat through a meal or remembers to write homework down in their planner, reinforces good behavior.
4) Give clear instructions:
It is always important for parents to set clear expectations, but even more so when their kid has ADHD. If the rule is your son needs to clean his room before watching YouTube, be precise about what constitutes a “clean” room. Is it just putting dirty clothes in the hamper and making the bed, or does it involve sweeping the floor and putting books back on the shelf.
5) Give mini time-outs:
Having a time-out can be a useful strategy for kids with ADHD, especially when they are having trouble regulating their emotions. Kids should have a clear understanding of the kinds of behaviors that will land them in time-outs. Avoid being angry, emotional or getting into arguments, as too much negative attention can reinforce problematic behaviors.
6) Be consistent:
Consistency is king when it comes to parenting a child with ADHD. Rules shouldn’t change from day to day or parent to parent. Consequences for misbehavior also need to be consistent. If you have a rule in your house that your child will lose their meal if they get up from the table, this rule needs to be enforced every time the child leaves their chair.
7) Make plenty of time for play:
Young children with ADHD often have a high-energy enthusiasm that lends itself well to playtime. Play can even help moderate difficult ADHD behaviors because it increases dopamine levels, which is similar to the effect of stimulant medications. For younger kids, tabletop activities like puzzles, Lego and coloring are fun ways to learn to sit in one place and focus.
8) Try sensory activities:
Sensory experiences help to draw your mind into the present and focus on what you’re experiencing now, rather than your mind scattering around to different thoughts.
9) Harness your kid’s imagination:
Some children with ADHD tend to gravitate toward artistic and imaginary play, such as crafts, dressing up or making up stories together. They have creative brains, so it’s about trying to reach them where they’re strong.
10) Model social skills:
As kids grow older, however, undesirable ADHD behaviors can sometimes express themselves during activities with other children. Kids with ADHD tend to be bossy in play and want to define the game and its rules. If things don’t go their way, they may abandon the activity. These kids may even find that other children begin avoiding them.
11) Limit screen time:
Kids with ADHD can be especially fond of video games, but parents need to be mindful of how much time kids spend in front of screens. The effects of too much screen time might be worse for kids with ADHD. It is recommended that, no screen time for kids with ADHD under two and no more than an hour a day for kids two to five years of age.
12) Keep them moving:
Multiple studies have shown aerobic exercise can help reduce ADHD symptoms. For little kids, active games like tag can be a fun way to get exercise. Encourage your kids to get up and move around every few minutes if they’re watching TV. And consider setting up a treadmill or exercise bike for older kids that they can use while watching TV.
#ADHD, #Children, #Problems, #Parenting
You must be logged in to post a comment.