Everywhere I go these days it seems I hear somebody talking about ADHD. Children are being diagnosed and parents are at their wits-end wondering what to do. Thinking that they aren't parenting properly. If I just try harder, more discipline, more love, more...something - I can make it go away, right? WRONG!
It's not that you are a bad parent. In fact you're a great parent because you are here trying to get information to help you help your child! Maybe your child hasn't even been diagnosed yet. They are just having trouble at school and you're looking for some answers. Well, this is a great place to get some.
If I seem passionate about ADHD, it's because I am. I have a son that was diagnosed with it about 9 years ago. He was really struggling and I was really looking for answers.
Parenting ADHD kids can be challenging on a good day! These are some tips I have found helpful in parenting a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is by no means an exhaustive list.
Realize that you are working with a disability. It helps me to take a step back and understand that a lot of the behaviors that my son exhibits are because of the ADHD, not because he is a "bad child" or because I'm a "bad parent". It's not like he "purposely" gobbles his supper, forgetting all the table manners that I teach him everyday. Nor is he trying to annoy me with the constant, endless chatter. That is the way he is, period!
Catch your child doing something good. Praise your child for the smallest things that they do correctly or without being prompted. A kind word, or pat on the back will go along way in helping your child repeat such behaviors.
Always show them love and respect and lead by example. By showing your ADHD child love and respect, they will learn that they can trust you, and in turn show you the same.
Find a support - Be that a good friend that you can vent to, another parent that has an ADHD child, or even a good online parenting support group. There will be days when you want to scream, and pull your hair out. It is so very important to have a strong support system.
Take some time for you. Remember Parenting ADHD kids is challenging on a good day! It is very important for you as the parent of an AD(H)D child to take a break. This could be Dad letting Mom have the night off to go out with a friend. It could be sending your children to Grandma's for a sleepover. It could be setting up a regular respite home that your child goes to for a weekend once each month. However you work it in, remember taking time for you, as a parent is not a bad thing. Having a chance to rest and relax will give you renewed energy, and allow you to give your best to your child.
I'd love to share more information with you on parenting ADHD children. Please do stop by my website, and sign up for my free mini-course "Parenting Happy Children". You can sign up over at my website.
Heather Masson has been a parent and professional child caregiver for over twenty years. Heather is passionate about parenting ADHD children, her son was diagnosed 9 years ago. She loves to help and support other parents in their quest for information. Heather believes information and a strong parenting support community are key to raising happy kids. Visit her website to learn more: Child Behavior Classroom
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