How can parents support children with ADHD throughout different developmental stages. What are the key challenges and effective strategies for each age group. How to create a supportive environment for ADHD children at home and school.

Understanding ADHD and Its Impact on Parenting

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) presents unique challenges for both children and their parents. As children with ADHD grow and develop, their needs and behaviors evolve, requiring parents to adapt their strategies accordingly. Understanding the nature of ADHD and its manifestations at different ages is crucial for effective parenting.

ADHD is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning and development. These symptoms can impact a child’s academic performance, social relationships, and self-esteem. However, with the right support and strategies, children with ADHD can thrive and reach their full potential.

The Importance of Parental Support

Parental support plays a pivotal role in the lives of children with ADHD. It can significantly influence their development, self-confidence, and overall well-being. How does parental support benefit children with ADHD?

• Boosts confidence and self-esteem
• Promotes social skills development
• Helps manage energy levels
• Creates a structured and supportive home environment
• Advocates for educational support

By providing consistent support and understanding, parents can help their children navigate the challenges associated with ADHD and develop the skills necessary for success in various aspects of life.

The Five Cs of ADHD Parenting: A Comprehensive Approach

Dr. Sharon Saline, a licensed clinical psychologist, developed a framework known as the “Five Cs of ADHD Parenting.” This approach provides a comprehensive guide for parents to effectively support their children with ADHD. What are the key components of this framework?

1. Self-Control: Parents should model self-control by responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively.
2. Compassion: Accepting children for who they are without judgment is crucial for building a strong parent-child relationship.
3. Collaboration: Working together with the child to find solutions fosters a sense of teamwork and mutual respect.
4. Consistency: Maintaining a consistent routine and expectations provides structure and stability.
5. Celebration: Acknowledging and praising achievements, no matter how small, reinforces positive behavior and boosts self-esteem.

By incorporating these principles into their parenting approach, caregivers can create a supportive environment that nurtures their child’s growth and development.

Parenting Strategies for Preschoolers with ADHD

The preschool years are a critical period for early intervention and support for children with ADHD. During this stage, parents can lay the foundation for effective management of ADHD symptoms and promote positive development. What strategies can parents employ to support their preschoolers with ADHD?

• Educate yourself about ADHD: Understanding the condition is the first step in providing effective support.
• Seek early assessment and diagnosis: Early identification can lead to timely interventions and support.
• Implement positive reinforcement: Praise and encourage positive behaviors to build self-esteem.
• Communicate with caregivers and educators: Ensure that all adults involved in the child’s care are aware of the diagnosis and appropriate strategies.
• Consider behavior therapy: Evidence-based treatments can help children develop crucial skills for managing ADHD symptoms.

By implementing these strategies, parents can create a supportive environment that promotes their preschooler’s development and helps manage ADHD symptoms effectively.

Supporting School-Age Children with ADHD

As children with ADHD enter school age, they face new challenges and opportunities. The structured environment of school can be both beneficial and challenging for children with ADHD. How can parents support their school-age children with ADHD?

Collaborating with the school is crucial for ensuring that children with ADHD receive appropriate support and accommodations. Parents can work with teachers and school administrators to implement strategies such as:

• Creating visual schedules to help with organization
• Arranging seating to minimize distractions
• Incorporating movement breaks into the school day
• Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps
• Providing fidget tools to help with focus
• Developing subtle cues to address interruptions
• Incorporating engaging, multi-sensory learning activities

At home, parents can support their school-age children by:

• Establishing a consistent after-school routine
• Allowing time for relaxation and physical activity
• Balancing extracurricular activities to avoid overscheduling
• Maintaining a structured schedule for meals, homework, and bedtime

By implementing these strategies both at school and at home, parents can help their school-age children with ADHD navigate academic challenges and develop important life skills.

Navigating the Teenage Years with ADHD

The teenage years bring new challenges for individuals with ADHD. While some symptoms may change or become less pronounced, new obstacles often arise as academic and social demands increase. How can parents effectively support their teenagers with ADHD?

During the teenage years, it’s important for parents to focus on:

• Establishing clear boundaries and expectations
• Promoting independence and self-advocacy
• Supporting the development of executive functioning skills
• Addressing social and emotional challenges
• Collaborating on academic strategies and support

Teenagers with ADHD may struggle with time management, organization, and long-term planning. Parents can help by teaching and modeling effective strategies for these skills. Additionally, open communication and a supportive environment are crucial for addressing the emotional challenges that often accompany ADHD during adolescence.

The Role of Medication in ADHD Management

Medication is often an important component of ADHD treatment, particularly for school-age children and teenagers. However, the decision to use medication should be made carefully and in consultation with healthcare professionals. What should parents consider when it comes to medication for ADHD?

The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants, which can help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity. Non-stimulant medications are also available and may be appropriate for some individuals. When considering medication, parents should:

• Consult with a qualified healthcare provider
• Discuss potential benefits and side effects
• Monitor the child’s response to medication closely
• Combine medication with behavioral interventions and support strategies
• Regularly review and adjust treatment plans as needed

It’s important to note that medication is not a cure for ADHD, but rather a tool to help manage symptoms. A comprehensive approach that includes behavioral strategies, educational support, and lifestyle modifications is often most effective.

Promoting Self-Esteem and Emotional Well-being

Children and teenagers with ADHD often struggle with self-esteem issues due to the challenges they face in various aspects of their lives. How can parents help boost their child’s self-esteem and emotional well-being?

Promoting self-esteem and emotional well-being is crucial for individuals with ADHD. Parents can support their children by:

• Focusing on strengths and talents
• Providing unconditional love and support
• Encouraging positive self-talk
• Helping children set realistic goals and celebrate achievements
• Teaching coping strategies for managing frustration and setbacks
• Fostering a growth mindset
• Encouraging participation in activities that build confidence

By creating a supportive and nurturing environment, parents can help their children develop a positive self-image and the resilience needed to overcome challenges associated with ADHD.

Building a Support Network for ADHD Families

Parenting a child with ADHD can be challenging, and it’s essential for parents to have a strong support network. How can parents build and maintain a support system for themselves and their children?

Creating a comprehensive support network can provide valuable resources, guidance, and emotional support for families dealing with ADHD. Some ways to build this network include:

• Joining ADHD support groups or online communities
• Connecting with other parents of children with ADHD
• Collaborating with teachers, school counselors, and administrators
• Working closely with healthcare providers and therapists
• Seeking family counseling or parent coaching when needed
• Educating extended family members about ADHD
• Exploring community resources and programs for children with ADHD

By building a strong support network, parents can access valuable resources, share experiences, and find encouragement in their journey of parenting a child with ADHD.

The Importance of Self-Care for Parents

Parenting a child with ADHD can be emotionally and physically demanding. Why is self-care crucial for parents of children with ADHD?

Self-care is essential for parents to maintain their own well-being and be better equipped to support their children. Some self-care strategies for parents include:

• Prioritizing sleep and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Seeking personal therapy or counseling when needed
• Maintaining social connections and personal interests
• Setting realistic expectations and boundaries
• Taking breaks and asking for help when necessary

By taking care of their own physical and emotional needs, parents can be more patient, resilient, and effective in supporting their children with ADHD.

Leveraging Technology to Support ADHD Management

In today’s digital age, technology can be a valuable tool for managing ADHD symptoms and supporting individuals with the condition. How can parents and children leverage technology to enhance ADHD management?

There are numerous apps, devices, and digital tools designed to support individuals with ADHD. Some ways technology can be beneficial include:

• Using digital calendars and reminders for organization and time management
• Implementing productivity apps to break down tasks and track progress
• Utilizing noise-cancelling headphones to minimize distractions
• Exploring educational apps that make learning more engaging and interactive
• Using timers and alarms to help with time awareness and task completion
• Implementing habit-tracking apps to reinforce positive behaviors
• Exploring mindfulness and meditation apps for emotional regulation

While technology can be helpful, it’s important to monitor usage and ensure that screen time is balanced with other activities. Parents should work with their children to find the right tools and establish guidelines for appropriate use.

The Future of ADHD Management: Emerging Treatments and Research

As our understanding of ADHD continues to evolve, new treatments and management strategies are emerging. What are some promising developments in ADHD research and treatment?

Ongoing research is exploring various aspects of ADHD, including its causes, potential prevention strategies, and new treatment approaches. Some areas of interest include:

• Neurofeedback and cognitive training programs
• Gene therapy and personalized medicine approaches
• Advanced brain imaging techniques for diagnosis and treatment planning
• Novel medication formulations with fewer side effects
• Mindfulness-based interventions for ADHD symptom management
• The role of nutrition and environmental factors in ADHD
• Virtual reality applications for ADHD therapy and skill development

While many of these approaches are still in the research phase, they offer hope for improved ADHD management in the future. Parents should stay informed about new developments and discuss potential new treatments with healthcare providers.

Parenting a child with ADHD age by age: What helps?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can present challenges as a child grows. Parenting a child with ADHD, age by age, can involve trying techniques to support their development and confidence.

Parents and caregivers may benefit from learning about ADHD, trying strategies to manage behavior, and focusing on the positive aspects of ADHD to raise confidence.

With the right support, parental interventions can increase the likelihood of good school performance and self-esteem.

This article discusses parenting a child with ADHD, including specific tips for preschoolers, older children, and teenagers.

Parental support plays a crucial role in the lives of all children, but for those with ADHD, it is especially important. Parenting can help:

• Boost confidence: Children with ADHD can receive a lot of negative feedback, which can damage self-esteem. Loving children unconditionally, noticing their successes, and identifying their strengths can counteract this.
• Promote social skills: Impulsivity and hyperactivity can sometimes interfere with forming relationships. Parenting can help children learn how to work cooperatively, take turns, and make friends.
• Manage energy: For children with hyperactivity, engaging in sports or other activities that channel their energy into a hobby or passion can be helpful.
• Create a helpful home environment: Children with ADHD benefit from structure at home, with clear and realistic rules and expectations. This can make victories more likely.
• Support education: Parents and caregivers can advocate for children at school, ensuring they get the support they need to succeed.

The five Cs of ADHD parenting is a framework that Sharon Saline, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist, developed. It emphasizes:

• Self-control: Caregivers should try to model self-control, responding to children rather than reacting.
• Compassion: Caregivers should withhold judgment, accepting others for who they are right now.
• Collaboration: This involves working together to find solutions, such as through compromise.
• Consistency: Caregivers should aim to follow a consistent plan or routine, but allow for flexibility.
• Celebration: This means offering praise and encouragement when things go well.

Some tips that can help with parenting at this stage include:

• Learning about ADHD: If a child shows potential signs of ADHD, take time to learn about the condition and its symptoms. This may involve reading medical information, but it can also help to read personal stories from people who have grown up with this diagnosis.
• Booking an assessment: If a child does not already have an ADHD diagnosis, it is important to try and get one as soon as possible. Some children receive a diagnosis as young as 4 years old.
• Positive reinforcement: This is important for all children, but especially those with ADHD. Praise their wins, no matter how small.
• Understanding childcare: Relatives, caregivers, and preschool staff should know about their diagnosis, how it affects behavior, and how to respond to it.
• Behavior therapy: This evidence-based treatment can help children learn how to manage impulses, hyperactivity, and difficulty concentrating. Some people believe that starting this early may reduce the need for medication later on.

At this age, children may have started school, which can be a major shift in daily routine.

To make sure children with ADHD get the most from school, it can help to plan ahead. Speak with new teachers before the term starts to let them know about the diagnosis and what helps the child.

Caregivers can also work with the school to arrange accommodations that may help their child, such as:

• writing out the day’s schedule on the board at the start of each day
• seating the child in a less distracting part of the classroom
• alternating seated activities with active ones
• allowing frequent breaks
• dividing bigger tasks into smaller ones
• giving the child an object they can discretely fidget with, such as a stress ball
• giving the child small errands when they are restless, such as fetching art supplies
• deciding on a subtle signal that indicates when the child is interrupting, rather than openly calling them out
• making learning fun with games, songs, or creative elements

After school, children may be tired from controlling their behavior all day. It may help to:

• set aside time for them to relax or burn off energy immediately after school
• take them to fun clubs or activities, but avoid overscheduling
• follow a predictable schedule for mealtime, homework, and bedtime

Teens with ADHD can sometimes experience changes in their symptoms. Hyperactivity may become less pronounced, but as the demands of school increase, they may encounter new challenges.

At this age, it may help caregivers to focus on:

• Clear boundaries: Teenagers often crave more freedom and may push the limits of old boundaries. Caregivers can work with this by setting age-appropriate boundaries that allow their child to become more independent, but within safe limits.
• Privileges: To further motivate adolescents, caregivers can grant additional freedoms as rewards for meeting goals or sticking with certain habits.
• Open communication: Adolescents may begin asserting different opinions and wishes to those of their caregivers. Try to encourage open communication about these issues.
• Medication schedule: Teenagers sometimes disagree with caregivers about the need for ADHD medications. If they want to stop taking it, it is important to have a balanced discussion about the potential benefits and consequences. ADHD medications can help with school performance, learning to drive, and other things that may be important to them.
• Unconditional support: When talking to a teen with ADHD, emphasize love and support. When caregivers believe in their child and their ability to solve problems or overcome difficulties, it can help boost confidence.

Boundaries are a vital part of parenting any child. When parenting a child with ADHD, it is important to:

• Remember their challenges: Children with ADHD do not intend to misbehave or forget things — their symptoms make it harder for them to control their behavior. Empathize with them, and keep in mind that it is not intentional.
• Set simple but specific expectations: This helps children understand what is and is not acceptable.
• Focus on logical consequences: If a child crosses a boundary, explain the consequences of that action. For example, the consequence of not doing homework could be that the child has to take extra lessons.
• Give a clear warning: Allow the child opportunity to change their behavior before delivering any consequences.
• Be consistent: Stick to the same rules and consequences and be consistent in applying them, even if a child makes the same mistake several times.

It is also important to avoid:

• Punishing or criticizing their symptoms: People with ADHD cannot change their symptoms, so punishing them for this is not helpful.
• Disciplining with anger: When responding to behavior, remain calm and keep the emphasis on the behavior, not the child. Avoid harsh punishments and yelling.
• Rigidity: While consistency is important, there may be times when boundaries need to change, such as with the child’s age or when something is not working.

Parent training can help caregivers learn more about ADHD and how to parent a child with ADHD. It usually involves eight or more sessions with a psychotherapist to learn behavioral management techniques.

Parent training is the doctor-recommended treatment for preschoolers with ADHD. It can also be useful for caregivers who have children under the age of 12.

People can get more information about parent training from a doctor, or they may look for a qualified therapist directly.

At all ages, parenting a child with ADHD involves education, empathy, and consistency. There are also specific ways to support children as they reach key milestones, such as when they start school.

Learning about ADHD and the techniques that work best for each child can help them flourish. Parents and caregivers may benefit from parent training to learn more about this.

Parenting a child with ADHD age by age: What helps?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can present challenges as a child grows. Parenting a child with ADHD, age by age, can involve trying techniques to support their development and confidence.

Parents and caregivers may benefit from learning about ADHD, trying strategies to manage behavior, and focusing on the positive aspects of ADHD to raise confidence.

With the right support, parental interventions can increase the likelihood of good school performance and self-esteem.

This article discusses parenting a child with ADHD, including specific tips for preschoolers, older children, and teenagers.

Parental support plays a crucial role in the lives of all children, but for those with ADHD, it is especially important. Parenting can help:

• Boost confidence: Children with ADHD can receive a lot of negative feedback, which can damage self-esteem. Loving children unconditionally, noticing their successes, and identifying their strengths can counteract this.
• Promote social skills: Impulsivity and hyperactivity can sometimes interfere with forming relationships. Parenting can help children learn how to work cooperatively, take turns, and make friends.
• Manage energy: For children with hyperactivity, engaging in sports or other activities that channel their energy into a hobby or passion can be helpful.
• Create a helpful home environment: Children with ADHD benefit from structure at home, with clear and realistic rules and expectations. This can make victories more likely.
• Support education: Parents and caregivers can advocate for children at school, ensuring they get the support they need to succeed.

The five Cs of ADHD parenting is a framework that Sharon Saline, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist, developed. It emphasizes:

• Self-control: Caregivers should try to model self-control, responding to children rather than reacting.
• Compassion: Caregivers should withhold judgment, accepting others for who they are right now.
• Collaboration: This involves working together to find solutions, such as through compromise.
• Consistency: Caregivers should aim to follow a consistent plan or routine, but allow for flexibility.
• Celebration: This means offering praise and encouragement when things go well.

Some tips that can help with parenting at this stage include:

• Learning about ADHD: If a child shows potential signs of ADHD, take time to learn about the condition and its symptoms. This may involve reading medical information, but it can also help to read personal stories from people who have grown up with this diagnosis.
• Booking an assessment: If a child does not already have an ADHD diagnosis, it is important to try and get one as soon as possible. Some children receive a diagnosis as young as 4 years old.
• Positive reinforcement: This is important for all children, but especially those with ADHD. Praise their wins, no matter how small.
• Understanding childcare: Relatives, caregivers, and preschool staff should know about their diagnosis, how it affects behavior, and how to respond to it.
• Behavior therapy: This evidence-based treatment can help children learn how to manage impulses, hyperactivity, and difficulty concentrating. Some people believe that starting this early may reduce the need for medication later on.

At this age, children may have started school, which can be a major shift in daily routine.

To make sure children with ADHD get the most from school, it can help to plan ahead. Speak with new teachers before the term starts to let them know about the diagnosis and what helps the child.

Caregivers can also work with the school to arrange accommodations that may help their child, such as:

• writing out the day’s schedule on the board at the start of each day
• seating the child in a less distracting part of the classroom
• alternating seated activities with active ones
• allowing frequent breaks
• dividing bigger tasks into smaller ones
• giving the child an object they can discretely fidget with, such as a stress ball
• giving the child small errands when they are restless, such as fetching art supplies
• deciding on a subtle signal that indicates when the child is interrupting, rather than openly calling them out
• making learning fun with games, songs, or creative elements

After school, children may be tired from controlling their behavior all day. It may help to:

• set aside time for them to relax or burn off energy immediately after school
• take them to fun clubs or activities, but avoid overscheduling
• follow a predictable schedule for mealtime, homework, and bedtime

Teens with ADHD can sometimes experience changes in their symptoms. Hyperactivity may become less pronounced, but as the demands of school increase, they may encounter new challenges.

At this age, it may help caregivers to focus on:

• Clear boundaries: Teenagers often crave more freedom and may push the limits of old boundaries. Caregivers can work with this by setting age-appropriate boundaries that allow their child to become more independent, but within safe limits.
• Privileges: To further motivate adolescents, caregivers can grant additional freedoms as rewards for meeting goals or sticking with certain habits.
• Open communication: Adolescents may begin asserting different opinions and wishes to those of their caregivers. Try to encourage open communication about these issues.
• Medication schedule: Teenagers sometimes disagree with caregivers about the need for ADHD medications. If they want to stop taking it, it is important to have a balanced discussion about the potential benefits and consequences. ADHD medications can help with school performance, learning to drive, and other things that may be important to them.
• Unconditional support: When talking to a teen with ADHD, emphasize love and support. When caregivers believe in their child and their ability to solve problems or overcome difficulties, it can help boost confidence.

Boundaries are a vital part of parenting any child. When parenting a child with ADHD, it is important to:

• Remember their challenges: Children with ADHD do not intend to misbehave or forget things — their symptoms make it harder for them to control their behavior. Empathize with them, and keep in mind that it is not intentional.
• Set simple but specific expectations: This helps children understand what is and is not acceptable.
• Focus on logical consequences: If a child crosses a boundary, explain the consequences of that action. For example, the consequence of not doing homework could be that the child has to take extra lessons.
• Give a clear warning: Allow the child opportunity to change their behavior before delivering any consequences.
• Be consistent: Stick to the same rules and consequences and be consistent in applying them, even if a child makes the same mistake several times.

It is also important to avoid:

• Punishing or criticizing their symptoms: People with ADHD cannot change their symptoms, so punishing them for this is not helpful.
• Disciplining with anger: When responding to behavior, remain calm and keep the emphasis on the behavior, not the child. Avoid harsh punishments and yelling.
• Rigidity: While consistency is important, there may be times when boundaries need to change, such as with the child’s age or when something is not working.

Parent training can help caregivers learn more about ADHD and how to parent a child with ADHD. It usually involves eight or more sessions with a psychotherapist to learn behavioral management techniques.

Parent training is the doctor-recommended treatment for preschoolers with ADHD. It can also be useful for caregivers who have children under the age of 12.

People can get more information about parent training from a doctor, or they may look for a qualified therapist directly.

At all ages, parenting a child with ADHD involves education, empathy, and consistency. There are also specific ways to support children as they reach key milestones, such as when they start school.

Learning about ADHD and the techniques that work best for each child can help them flourish. Parents and caregivers may benefit from parent training to learn more about this.

Neurologist Chutko told how to raise a child with ADHD – Gazeta.Ru

Neurologist Chutko told how to raise a child with ADHD – Gazeta.Ru | News

March 01, 2023, 14:43

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When a child has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, parents should build a life schedule for him and refrain from criticizing his personality. This was told to Gazeta.Ru by the head of the Center for Behavioral Neurology, head of the laboratory for the correction of mental development and adaptation of the Institute of the Human Brain of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor Leonid Chutko.

“Such a child should not be scolded or criticized. Children with ADHD, in principle, are not too susceptible to criticism, to prohibitions. If a child has done something wrong, it is important to convey to him the thought: “You are good, but you did wrong.” That is, do not scold him for his personality, for who he is. This, in general, also applies to healthy children. But with ADHD, a positive model of parental behavior towards a child is extremely important, ”he explained.

It is also very important for children with ADHD to structure time as much as possible so that the child has specific time periods for certain tasks, to build a schedule.

“People with ADHD find it difficult to stick to it, but without a schedule, their lives will turn into chaos. If parents want their child to later receive an education, a profession, not become disabled and feel in society on an equal footing with healthy peers, then we must strive to maintain some kind of routine. Absolute obedience, of course, should not be demanded, but permissiveness should not be allowed, ”added Chutko.

Learn more about how to distinguish ADHD in a child from simple bad manners and how the syndrome can manifest itself in adults – in material “Gazety. Ru”.

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How to raise a child with ADHD: personal experience of mothers and advice from psychologists – Parents.ru

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child psychologist

child psychologist

Does this mean that all extremely restless kids are potential carriers of this syndrome, abbreviated as ADHD? Far from it. And it is practically meaningless to talk about this disorder, at least until four or five years of age.

What does it look like?

Difficulty concentrating, a key component of ADHD, will really show up when children start learning, albeit in a playful way. And they have to become more focused. “But our child is great at concentrating! He loves cartoons and fiddles with puzzles, ”the parents disagree. Indeed, such children can easily do something for a relatively long time, but only if the activity is really pleasant and interesting for them. As soon as they need to tighten up, listen carefully and do something less exciting, say, learn letters or numbers, they flatly refuse to do it.

In addition to the inability to concentrate, children are impulsive and difficult to negotiate with. In response to a request to do something or not to do something, they scream, cry, and sometimes show aggression, trying to hit an adult who is losing patience. They also do not stand on ceremony with their peers: the conflict over a shoulder blade or the sequence of riding down a hill is often resolved by small ringleaders by force. Constantly on the move, they have poor control over themselves, falling and bruising and bumping endlessly.

And how to react?

When faced with a child’s diagnosis for the first time, parents are at a loss (by the way, this syndrome occurs more often in boys than in girls, in a ratio of 8:1). They ask many questions: will he be able to successfully study, make friends and how will this affect his growing up?

“Detecting a problem at an early, preschool age is already half the battle,” says child psychologist Natalya Kaverskaya. – In close contact with a specialist, it is possible, without wasting time, to develop tactics for the treatment and rehabilitation of the child. With the right approach and understanding of the features of this condition by all close people, the baby will develop as successfully as his peers. And it is also important for all family members to realize: this is not your fault.

Indeed, the worst thing parents can do is blame themselves or each other. Dads accuse mothers of excessive connivance to whims, mothers, in turn, of insufficient patience and unjustified punishments. In fact, this syndrome is considered to be congenital, due to neurobiological factors, although the exact mechanism of its occurrence is not yet well understood. One of the possible reasons is birth injuries and infectious diseases suffered by the child in the first months of life.

Communicate positively

Children with ADHD suffer from the wall of misunderstanding that grows between them and the world. After all, they themselves would like to react more calmly and not enter the warpath with their parents, siblings and friends, sometimes feeling like outright outcasts. The kid feels: he is constantly scolded, and no matter what he does, it only upsets everyone. And if at the same time he sees how his peers or siblings are praised and encouraged: they painted an excellent picture, and they assemble puzzles with dad in a race, and everyone clapped them at the matinee, this does not add self-confidence. The child is nervous, angry, the parents lose their patience, and the situation enters into a vicious circle.

“Under no circumstances should children lose confidence that they are loved,” reminds Natalya Kaverskaya. – As often as possible, without any reason, hug the child and say how dear he is to you. The more the baby hears these words from you and receives gentle touches, the easier it is for him to cope with himself. When you feel that the child is starting to get nervous, offer him to hug and sit, cuddled up to each other. Over time, this can well calm him down at a time when the conflict has just begun, but has not yet heated up.

Even if his success in drawing or writing numbers, that is, an activity that requires concentration, seems modest to you, be sure to praise and encourage him. For a preschool child, it is not so important what the task will be. If writing is better than counting, it is worth concentrating on this.

The main thing here is accustoming to concentration and the ability to overcome one’s impulsive desires to switch to something more interesting. Work with your baby when he feels most rested, mark the time and try to build up the minutes every week that he spends at work or just listening to reading a book. It is important that the most tempting and distracting toys are removed. And, of course, you must be present nearby.

Exercises for the development of fine motor skills

1. Smear hard plasticine with your fingers over the large coloring picture.

2. Draw small circles and fill them in with a pencil or pen.

3. Place several small plastic or glass balls in the child’s hand and ask him to take them out one by one with the thumb and forefinger of the same hand.

4. Arrange empty plastic bottles on a not very stable surface (sofa or chair) so that they keep their balance.

Photo

fizkes/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Irina, a mother of two, recalls that she and her eldest daughter learned the alphabet and counting through games. But with her youngest son, who was diagnosed with ADHD, she and her husband became more resourceful. “We try to focus his attention on something that he is particularly interested in.

One of my favorite games is the disappearance of toy dinosaurs. To come to the aid of his friends, the son must write the cherished words on the board. First, we, to the delight of the child, look around the apartment for hidden cards with words. Then we find, the son reads and writes words. After that, the beloved dinosaurs are back.”

“Games with plots related to favorite toys, characters from books or cartoons can be great learning aids,” psychologist Olga Naumova supports the imagination of parents. – The main thing is not to rush and push the child. Perhaps his peers are better at tasks that your baby has not yet been able to do or which he flatly refuses to complete.

The thing is that due to the peculiarities of the functioning of the brain, he constantly needs new stimuli: outdoor games, cartoons – and it is more difficult for him to perform monosyllabic tasks that require repetition. A child with ADHD needs a little more time to develop a stable nervous system, so don’t be in a hurry. He will master writing and counting perfectly and will be able to study as well as other children if you now allow him to develop at his own pace.

It is often difficult for a child with ADHD to focus on drawings in a standard sketchbook or writing small letters. Arrange your own corner for him: stick a drawing paper on the wall in the nursery – often such children are much closer to “large-scale painting”.

Tired toys sleep

All children need a routine and predictable routine, but children with ADHD are especially dependent on it. The well-observed time of walks, games and going to bed helps them not to get overexcited and switch on time. It is also important that these children, who naturally have a more mobile nervous system, rest during the day. The longer the child manages to keep the daytime sleep, the calmer the baby will be. Of course, a dream does not build in order to start fighting for it – it only injures. If the baby cannot fall asleep, offer him to change into pajamas for this time (such a ritual sets the children in a more peaceful way) and lie quietly in the crib, listening to a book that they read to him.

Friends and games

Protect your baby from overwork, because it leads to a decrease in self-control and an increase in hyperactivity. Emotional events (going to the theater, children’s parties) are important to alternate with a more predictable and routine period. And if today he is invited to a children’s party with clowns and games, then you should not plan a trip to the circus for the next few days, but it is better to spend them in a calm home environment. It is worth avoiding communication with super restless friends. And if you invite someone home for joint games – let it be one guest.

And have plenty of fun!

Do not think that children with ADHD should be limited in excessive activity. On the contrary, all the latest research confirms that physical activity helps children relieve stress and feel better. It is only important to direct it in the right direction: it is enough to walk with the child and play outdoor games, which can also train mindfulness.

“At the dacha, we came up with an impromptu game with bows,” says Natalya, mother of five-year-old Lelya. – I gave my daughter colorful ribbons, and we competed – which of us would run around the site faster and tie them to the trunk of five bushes. While walking in the forest, we came up with a game – to collect a certain number of cones in the basket, and then race to the tree chosen by the landmark. This game gave both excitement and at the same time trained the ability to count.

You can also take your child to dance, gymnastics or ice skating classes – anything that can captivate him will do. When he goes to school and parents think about more serious sports, you should not consider only aggressive sports, such as boxing.

How and what to play?

• Compete on the street to be the first to see a red car, a woman with a dog, a baby in a stroller. This will help keep all the points of the task in mind and train mindfulness.

• “What’s new in the room?” Ask the child to remember the location of things. Then put the new object in a relatively conspicuous place and ask to find it. Do not hide in a hard-to-reach place, the baby should be able to easily find the object with a glance.

• Use bingo and board games with rules like “find ten differences” or “guide the dog through the maze”. Differences in the pictures at first should be obvious, and the maze should be short.

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The sea is rough at times. The sea is worried for two…

The calmer the situation around the baby in the family and his immediate environment, the easier it is for him to learn to control himself. Yes, it is not easy to always respond with restraint to constant whims that turn into screams and tears. However, by raising our tone in response or starting to punish harshly, we only exacerbate the situation. After all, impulsivity and irritability are components of ADHD. Our task is to help the child at this moment. If it was not possible to reach an agreement and the rivers, as they say, overflowed their banks: the child cries uncontrollably, loudly demands something, or demonstratively falls to the floor, you should not conduct educational conversations at this moment. If you are away from home, try taking him to another place so that he changes the situation.

“Of course, we, mothers and fathers, are also living people and are not always able to control ourselves. If such a demarche took place at home, it is better to leave the baby alone in the room for a while, so that you can cope with your emotions and let off steam, Olga Naumova suggests. – But a little later, be sure to return, hug him and remind him that you love him very much and understand how difficult it is for him now. It is important for a child to feel you share his feelings. Yes, you can’t let him have whatever he wants. But try to say “no” less often, switching his attention to something else and offering an alternative.”

After being diagnosed with ADHD, moms and dads get a long-awaited answer to many of their questions. However, the claims of others: parents, peers, kindergarten teachers, disgruntled relatives – often continue to haunt them. After all, the child does not have any violations that are obvious to the eye, and therefore many perceive him as poorly educated, and his parents as negligent. It will also require endurance and patience.

“It is important to find a compromise not only with your own baby, but also with disgruntled parents whose children have suffered from your bully,” says Natalya Kaverskaya. “If an incident between children happened in front of you, it is important to show participation, explain that the attacker is wrong and try to achieve reconciliation. ” Olga Naumova recalls that there should be one rule: “Everyone who spends significant time with your child – grandmothers, nannies, educators – must understand and support him. After all, the biggest problem of children with behavioral disorders is that it is difficult for people, sometimes even relatives, to identify with them and understand their problems.

House or garden?

To be successful in the team, the child’s nervous system needs to mature enough, but in babies with ADHD this happens more slowly, and many experts advise not to send such children to nursery and kindergarten for as long as possible. You can socialize the baby by attending developmental classes with him and adjusting their frequency depending on how the child reacts to this. Over time, the baby will learn to better control his emotions and cope with restlessness. The compromise would be a part-time day in the garden.

“It all depends on the teacher,” says Olga, mother of five-year-old Oksana. – Our difficulties began with the older group, when instead of understanding and loving, able to take into account the condition of their daughter, they came indifferent. They didn’t care what the child was doing, as long as it didn’t interfere with their activity. It seems to be in the garden, but the isolation is complete. For six months, my daughter lost interest in everything. At five, she had not yet read, but she loved to write down the words. And then she refused and from this she became simply uncontrollable. We transferred to another group – the child began to gradually come to life.

One way or another, it is highly likely that not all kids will be sympathetic to the “activities” of their classmate, who is used to solving everything with pressure and force, even pursuing the good goal of making friends and playing together. Not always patient to the fidget and tutors. It’s no secret that in some kindergartens, parents are tacitly pressured to take away a child who is “difficult” for teachers. It is important to be prepared for these realities of everyday kindergarten life.

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If you decide to send your child to kindergarten

It is very important to get the support of caregivers. Even if a good place will be located a little further than a kindergarten nearby, it is worth going for it to specifically carry a child there. The main priority here is an attentive, understanding environment for the baby. Do not be afraid of kindergartens specially created for children with problems arising from ADHD, in particular, speech therapy lag. This is by no means a place where the development of the child will slow down, as it seems to some parents.

If you have just started taking your baby to kindergarten, it is better not to combine it immediately with additional developmental activities, but to spend your free time in a calm, homely environment.