Being a parent to a child who has Attention Deficit Disorder can be challenging, as well as overwhelming and frustrating at times. Fortunately, there are things you can do as a parent that can help in controlling and reducing the symptoms of ADD.
At A Loving Way to Parent, we are here to support you in being a great parent to your child. Below are tips to help you in parenting a child with ADD challenges.
Set up a structure and follow it strictly
Children who suffer from Attention Deficit Disorder are more likely to finish a task when there’s a certain level of predictability about that task with regards to when and where it will happen. By establishing a routine, you help a child with ADD remain organized and focused. You are teaching them personal strategies and habits for a productive life.
Keep the child busy and occupied
The more idle time a child with ADD has, the higher the likelihood of their symptoms becoming exacerbated, which leads to chaos in the home. It is therefore important to ensure that your child is kept busy. That being said, be sure to choose healthy activities (sports, artistic pursuits such as music, painting or drawing, or helping around the house), instead of time filling activities of video games and television. Also, participate with your child in some or all of the activities you choose. That will immensely enhance your parent child relationship by building connection, trust and bonding. Be sure the schedule is balanced. You do not want to overwhelm them with too many activities.
Cultivate proper eating habits
What any child eats (and adults also, for that matter) affects their state of mind, which will consequently determine behavior. Keeping tabs on what your child is eating, time and quantities, and modifying those as-needed can assist in reducing the symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder. Avoid junk food as much as possible, and instead offer fresh and healthy food. A regular meal routine is also recommended.
These simple (but not always easy) tips are a great start to reducing disharmony in any home. For more information, contact Traci directly at traci@alovingway.com or schedule your free 15-minute consultation today!