ADHD children usually have an increased urge to move – you should try to meet this in everyday life. Since children are expected to sit still in certain situations, for example at meals or in class, they should be given the opportunity to move extensively in other situations.
Membership in a sports club can help
Set aside specific times when your child can really let off steam. Such a period is particularly suitable between activities that require your child to concentrate hard. Try enrolling your child in a sports club. Sports in the club can help train the child’s ability to integrate and make new social contacts.
Clear communication
Make sure to always talk calmly but firmly with your child. On the other hand, avoid expressing yourself aggressively, yelling at the child, and giving your statements an ironic or cynical undertone. Try to work with short, clear feedback such as ‘stop’ or ‘good’ that is easy for the child to understand.
Once you have given an instruction, you should maintain your position and not give in – this is the only way the child will learn to abide by clear rules. Once a conflict has been resolved, you should let it rest and not burden the child with old accusations again at the next opportunity.
Stay calm
No matter what your child has just done, it is important that you try to remain calm and composed – even if you are inwardly distraught and at your wits’ end. Always remember that your child is not behaving this way on purpose, but that his behavior is triggered by a disorder in the brain.
For ADHD children, who are more likely to cause trouble with peers or teachers because of their behavior, it is especially important that they find a secure support system in the family that offers them protection, security and love. Therefore, even if it is not always easy in conflictual situations, try to always be aware of your child’s positive qualities as well.
Seek help
When a child has ADHD, it is often a stressful situation for the entire family. Often, parents do not really know how to deal with their child and how to react to certain behaviors. This is where it is important for you as a parent to seek help in a timely manner. Talk to a doctor and be open to therapy. You may also be able to connect with other parents who are in a similar situation through therapy. Alternatively, you can go to a support group and share your problems with other parents there.
Since everyday life with an ADHD child can become very exhausting in the long run, you should regularly build in breaks that you use just for yourself. For example, hire a homework helper for one afternoon a week so you can have some time to breathe. Pursue your own interests – that way you can gather new strength and energy for everyday life.
