Understanding ADHD
On The Blog
Written by Lauren Horlick
Parenting a child with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) comes with its own set of challenges. This disorder can cause behavioral problems, academic struggles, emotional outbursts, stigma, and judgment from others. Understanding how ADHD can impact your child and developing effective strategies can help you and your child better cope with daily challenges brought by the condition.
Understanding ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means that it is a condition that affects the growth and development of the brain. This neurodevelopmental condition affects a child’s ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate their energy levels. For example, a child with ADHD might easily get distracted and seem absent-minded. They might also show hyperactive behavior by having difficulty staying still or being quiet. Kids who are impulsive might also have little to no sense for danger and they’re likely to take more risks.
Types of ADHD
There are three types of ADHD in children, which would depend on the symptoms they present: inattentive type, hyperactive and impulsive type, and combined type. Children with inattentive type of ADHD have difficulty paying attention or focusing on a task. They typically have short attention spans and have difficulty listening to instructions. Additionally, kids who have an inattentive type of ADHD might struggle with organization. Hyperactive and impulsive type, which is mainly characterized by excessive movement (hyperactivity) and deciding or acting without thinking of the outcome (impulsiveness). You might notice that they are always fidgeting, have difficulty sitting still, talk too much, or interrupt other people’s conversations or activities. Combined type, which is diagnosed when symptoms fit both types of ADHD. It is also the most common type of ADHD.
Impact of ADHD on Daily Life
ADHD can make it harder for children to focus their attention on a task or listen to instructions attentively, which can affect their performance in school. They might also need frequent reminders to perform their responsibilities at home. Other than that, being hyperactive and impulsive can cause plenty of mistakes because they tend to rush through things and do things without thinking of the consequences. All these behaviors can make it seem that a child with ADHD is defiant, non-compliant, or actively misbehaving.
Effective Support Strategies for Children with ADHD
Parents play an important role in helping children with ADHD manage their symptoms effectively. Here are support strategies you can incorporate in your child’s life:
Building a support network- Consult with healthcare professionals for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for your child. Treatment for ADHD often includes medication and therapy that can help them develop skills to help manage their behaviors. Ask your child’s therapist how you can respond to your child’s ADHD behaviors to help manage them better.
Establishing structure and routine- You can help your child build organization skills by establishing a daily routine. This can help them know what to expect. By having a structure in their life, they are more likely to finish tasks. List down the things that need to be done every day, such as homework, getting ready for bed, preparing for school, and others. Then try to set a time for these tasks and stick to them. You can use visual aids, such as a calendar with pictures, to help them visualize their daily routine.
Encouraging physical activity and mindfulness- Encouraging physical activity for children with ADHD comes with several benefits. Aside from helping them build healthy habits that can help them stay fit, exercise can also help them cope with other emotional and behavioral issues. There are plenty of ways for kids to exercise. You can find something that will match their preferences and interests. It could be team sports, or solo activities like swimming or biking. Mindfulness is the act of focusing the mind on the present moment every time you get distracted, which is a problem for children with ADHD. There are plenty of ways for children with ADHD to practice mindfulness. You can teach them deep breathing techniques to calm their minds and bodies. Encourage them to take slow breaths through their nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through their mouths. Another example is to practice mindful eating, by teaching them to pay full attention to the taste, smell, and texture of their food. Ask them to describe their observations to you as they eat.
Communicating and collaborating with teachers- The symptoms of ADHD can lead to challenges in a child’s learning experience at school. Inattention, hyperactivity, an impulsivity can make it difficult for them to focus or complete their schoolwork. They might also struggle sitting still during lessons and cause interruptions in class. Teachers can also help provide what your child needs at school, such as reducing distractions during class, enforcing classroom routines, and guiding them when they’re rushing through their tasks.
Tailoring learning strategies-Children with ADHD are easily distracted, so limiting distractions and providing a clutter-free space for studying is helpful. Make sure to reduce noise and turn off electronic devices in the homework area. When it comes to homework, guide them and check if they understand the instructions because children with ADHD tend to miss important details. It would also be beneficial to break up homework and tasks into smaller chunks, so they complete one part at a time. It is also important to give your child scheduled breaks, so they can get up and move. You can set timers to help them manage their time.
Implementing positive reinforcement- Positive reinforcement is a strategy that involves providing praise or rewards after a desired behavior occurs. It would be helpful for your child to follow established rules and expectations when it comes to behavior. Explain the rewards for positive behavior and consequences for misbehavior and stick to them. Words of praise, extra privileges, or fun activities are great rewards to reinforce positive behavior. Try to focus on positive reinforcement to motivate your child to behave positively. Negative consequences should be used carefully because they can cause discouragement and feelings of disappointment and anxiety.
Parenting a child with ADHD can be challenging, but always remember that you are doing your best to support them and make a positive impact in their life. It might be difficult, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Embrace your child’s unique qualities and celebrate their strengths. Always lean on your support system and be patient with yourself and your child. Don’t forget to practice self-care, so you can recharge and have the energy to better support your child. Lastly, don’t forget to keep educating yourself about ADHD and parenting strategies.