Positive Parenting: How to Help Your Child with ADHD Thrive

Few things are worse than hearing your child has a health problem. And in the case of ADHD, for which there's no cure, you might start to wonder if there's any chance of a normal life for your child. 

Drs. Tina Floy and Trinidad Rojas at Wellness Pediatrics in Fairfax, Virginia, know how overwhelming it can be to parent a child with ADHD. That's why we make ADHD treatment a key focus of our comprehensive pediatric services. 

We're dedicated to walking alongside parents and caregivers to give them the tools they need to help their youngsters live full, happy lives despite ADHD. 

Defining ADHD

Defining and understanding exactly what ADHD is (and isn't) is the best place to start in helping your child. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. 

Some of the hallmarks of ADHD include difficulty focusing, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and forgetfulness, but we usually classify ADHD into one of two primary types based on the symptoms that your child displays. 

The first type is predominantly inattentive ADHD, which is characterized by difficulties following instructions, staying on task, maintaining daily routines, completing school assignments, and interacting with other children. 

The second type is predominantly hyperactive ADHD, which involves difficulty sitting still, problems waiting their turn, and engaging in impulsive or risky behaviors, such as running, climbing, or jumping in inappropriate settings. 

In some cases, children may display symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive ADHD, known as a combined presentation. By recognizing these symptoms, you can better understand your child's needs and seek appropriate support.

Helping your child with ADHD

Every child with ADHD experiences different symptoms to varying degrees. That means each child requires a different approach to managing their condition. As a result, it may take time for you and our team to figure out the best combination of treatments and therapies. 

But there are a few things all parents can do to support their child's treatment plan and help them thrive. Consider implementing the following strategies.

Create a routine

All children thrive on routine and structure, but that's even more true for children with ADHD. Try to establish a consistent daily routine that includes regular meal times, homework time, and bedtime. This helps your child know what to expect and feel more in control.

Break tasks into smaller steps

Children with ADHD can quickly become overwhelmed by large tasks. Breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can help your child feel less anxious and more capable of completing the task at hand.

For example, instead of saying, "Clean your room," give your child one chore at a time (pick up toys, make your bed, or fold your laundry).

Use positive reinforcement

Children with ADHD respond well to positive reinforcement. Praising and rewarding your child for their accomplishments, no matter how small, goes a long way in boosting their self-esteem and motivation.

Positive reinforcement can look as simple as a high five and a smile or as exciting as a trip to the ice cream store. You know your child best and can decide which reinforcements mean the most. 

Provide a quiet space

Children with ADHD are easily distracted and overstimulated by noises, lights, and even conversations in the next room. So providing a separate, quiet space for your child to work or relax can help them focus and reduce their stress levels.

Encourage physical activity

Physical activity is your and your child's best friend. Getting your child out of the house and into the sunshine is a good way to help them burn off excess energy, regulate their mood, and improve their focus. 

You can encourage your child to participate in sports and other physical activities they enjoy, or you can simply take a family walk to the park.

Communicate with your child's teacher

Educators these days are extremely sensitive and responsive to all their students' varying needs, so keep an open line of communication with your child's teacher. Let them know about your child's ADHD and work together to develop strategies to help your child succeed in the classroom.

Seek professional help

If your child's ADHD is causing significant difficulties in their daily life, it may be time to seek professional help. In addition to partnering with dedicated parents and caregivers, we work directly with your child, giving them the tools and support they need.

If you'd like more information about helping your child with ADHD, call our friendly staff or use our online booking tool to schedule a consultation with our specialists today.