Helping Your Child with ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects around 5% of school-aged children and young people in the UK.

The condition makes it hard for children to focus, concentrate, and stay still.

It can affect their academic and social life and can be challenging for parents to deal with. Children with ADHD can find it hard to control their impulses, can be easily distracted, forgetful, and have difficulty following instructions. It can lead to low self-esteem and other behavioural problems.

If you have concerns about your child, speak to your GP who may refer them to a specialist.

There’s no simple test to determine whether your child has ADHD, but a specialist will be able to make an accurate diagnosis after a detailed assessment. The assessment may include a physical examination, interviews with the child, and interviews or reports from other significant people, such as parents and teachers.

With proper guidance and support, children with ADHD can thrive and can harness their condition to achieve in areas that their neurotypical peers may find challenging.

Understanding ADHD and learning practical strategies to support your child can make an enormous difference in their journey, so let us take a closer look at the condition and try to understand it more fully.

Types of ADHD and Their Signs

ADHD encompasses three primary subtypes;

• Predominantly inattentive
• Predominantly hyperactive or impulsive
• Combination of the two

Predominantly inattentive type;

• Your child may struggle to sustain attention, often becoming easily distracted.
• Following instructions or completing tasks may prove challenging.
• Misplacing belongings or forgetting essential items is common.
• They may seem unorganised, overlooking details and making careless mistakes.
• Daydreaming or appearing not to listen may be noticeable traits.

Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive type;

• Restlessness and fidgeting may make it hard for your child to stay seated.
• They may impulsively interrupt conversations or intrude on others’ activities.
• Decision making may be impulsive, without considering the consequences.
• Excessive talking and difficulty with waiting their turn.

Combined type;

Children with combined type ADHD have a combination of traits mentioned above, and may face challenges across multiple areas, including attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity.

An Effective Help System

ADHD can make it difficult for children to navigate daily activities successfully, so, establishing a supportive help system for them is important.

Here are some key strategies that can be really helpful;

Structure and routine;

Children with ADHD thrive in an environment that offers consistency and predictability. Establishing a structured daily routine will provide your child with stability and reduce anxiety. Using visual aids, such as calendars or schedules will help your child to understand and follow the routine effectively.

Clear communication;

Simplify instructions by breaking down tasks into manageable steps. Visual cues, such as flashcards that show a child going about their morning routine, for example, will help them navigate that part of the day. Ensure that your child understands what is expected of them and encourage them to ask for clarification if needed. Patience and communication are key.

Being organised;

Help older children to develop organisational skills by creating a study area in their bedroom or other area of the home and teach them the importance of keeping everything in order. Use colour coded folders or labels to categorise materials and encourage your child to regularly declutter. Also, helping them to break down tasks into smaller achievable goals can make them feel more in control.

Communicate with your child’s teacher;

It’s important to maintain regular communication with your child’s teacher to ensure that they are receiving the support they need at school. Work together to produce strategies to help your child stay focused in the classroom. Find activities that promote active learning both in the classroom and at home; STEM toys such as building sets and science kits can improve their problem-solving skills and actively engage their minds.

Triggers and Coping Strategies

Being able to identify triggers that intensify ADHD symptoms, and implementing coping strategies, can empower you to create a nurturing and supportive environment for your child.

The following strategies can help to manage triggers effectively;

Sensory regulation;

Children with ADHD can be sensitive to sensory stimuli, such as flashing lights or loud music, so designate a calm space for play, and study when they are older, that minimises distractions. Providing sensory outlets such as stress balls or fidget toys will help your child to channel excess energy and maintain focus.

Healthy sleep habits;

Sufficient sleep plays a crucial role in managing ADHD symptoms, so establishing a consistent bedtime routine, a calm sleep environment, and limiting screen time before bed can all have a positive effect. Encourage your child to do activities that will help them wind down before sleep time, such as reading or listening to calm music.

Stress management;

Children with ADHD may experience heightened stress and anxiety, so teach your child relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness activities. Also encourage them to express their feelings and provide emotional support during challenging times. Being a calm and reassuring presence can make a world of difference.

Rewards and Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in motivating and shaping the behaviour of children with ADHD, and it may be beneficial to use the following approaches;

Token systems;

Create a reward system or chart as a tool to help manage your child’s behaviour. When producing a system, it’s important to involve your child in the process and set achievable goals. The rewards or incentives should be meaningful for your child; they could be a sticker, a small gift, or a hug, and remember to be consistent.

Praise effort;

It’s important to recognise and acknowledge your child’s efforts and achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement will give them a sense of self-worth and encourage a growth mindset (a belief that you can develop your skills and talents through effort and determination).

Focusing on your child’s strengths and highlighting their unique talents will boost their confidence. Avoid using punishment for ‘bad behaviour’ as this can be demotivating and lead to negative self-esteem.

Special time together;

Dedicate quality one-to-one time with your child, doing activities they enjoy. Show interest in their passions and encourage their enjoyment of them. Your child will really appreciate this time with you, and it will also strengthen your bond.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Your Child

Having a healthy lifestyle can really help children with ADHD. Establishing a good sleep pattern, having a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can significantly help to manage your child’s symptoms.

Sleep;

A structured sleep routine can have a profound impact on children with ADHD. It helps to regulate their body clock which leads to better focus and attention during the day, while also reducing irritability and impulsivity.

By ensuring your child gets the recommended amount of sleep for their age each night and establishing a calming bedtime routine, they will be better prepared to navigate the daily challenges they face.

Balanced diet;

Having a healthy diet and avoiding excessive sugar intake is beneficial for children with ADHD. High sugar consumption can lead to blood sugar fluctuations which affects energy levels, attention span and can increase hyperactivity.

Instead, opt for low-sugar alternatives and avoid processed foods. A balanced diet containing lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables will provide the essential nutrients to support brain function and regulate mood.

Exercise;

Physical activity helps children with ADHD to channel their excess energy, reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity. It helps to reduce stress, boosts mood and contributes to a more balanced emotional state.

Being active also promotes better sleep which, as mentioned earlier, is essential for managing ADHD symptoms. So, encouraging your child to participate in activities they enjoy, such as sports or outdoor play can have a positive impact on them and their overall quality of life.

Summary

Helping your child with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right support and guidance, your child can thrive.

Creating a supportive environment at home, engaging in play and physical activities, communicating with your child’s teacher, rewarding positive behaviour, and considering medication can all be helpful. Remember that every child with ADHD is unique, and it’s essential to find the strategies that work best for your child.

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