Parenting an ADHD child

Be patient and be proud of your child.

Children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) have trouble finishing tasks, focusing, and following instructions. They might feel frustrated, angry, or misunderstood, or they might be hyperactive and impulsive. They may become afraid or depressed or they may have mood swings.
 
Children with ADHD don’t act the same as other children their age. They might act silly or too young for their age. It’s important for you to know that a child with ADHD does not cause problems on purpose. You may think your child should know better and you may be tempted to scold him or her. But it is important to avoid getting angry. Be patient and be proud of your child. Use the guidelines below for ideas on how you can help your child change some behaviors to become more focused and productive.

• Don’t focus on just the problems. Be close to your child. Laugh together. Enjoy spending time together. Having fun together makes it easier to solve problems together.
  
• Tell your child you love him or her and want to help with problems. Children with ADHD can be sensitive to jokes or comments. Let your child know that he or she is appreciated. Help your child understand rules and directions given by a teacher or other adult.
  
• Find out what is hard for your child. Watch how your child acts with others. Learn about situations that make it hard for your child to focus.
  
• Use lists. If you give your child several things to do, make a list. Write out the list with your child and make sure he or she understands the tasks. Have your child check off finished tasks. Give your child choices, such as when or how a task should be done.
  
• Talk about consequences. Help your child think about the consequences of his or her actions. Ask your child, “What do you think will happen if you do such-and-such?” Fill in the consequences if your child can’t.
  
• Reduce distractions. Create routines in your home. Keep yourself and your home on a schedule that your child can rely on. Prepare your child ahead of time for any changes in your home.
  
• Reduce impulsive behavior. Plan things, like sports or activities with other children, that keep your child busy and active. This can help use up your child’s extra energy and reduce impulsive behavior.
  
• Put everything in its place. Children with ADHD often lose things. Set aside a place in your home where your child can put things that are needed every day, such as a backpack or keys. Always keep these items in this place.
  
• Set limits. Be consistent and fair when rewarding or disciplining your child. Plan ahead for behaviors you want to encourage or discourage.
  
• Use positive reinforcement. Be honest when praising your child. Don’t give your child false praise. Praise your child for doing things well and finishing tasks. Praise your child for showing effort. If a task isn’t finished or is done poorly, tell your child you’re glad for the effort.

For more information and tips see www.ccbh.com/upmcforkids/preventivehealth/index.php. If you need assistance with accessing behavioral health treatment for your child with ADHD, please call UPMC Health Plan Behavioral Health Services at 1-888-251-0083 or through the TTY line at
1-877-877-3580.

Sources: Community Care Behavioral Health