How parents deal with ADHD in children

This is the 4730th article of Da Yi Xiao Hu

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, commonly known as hyperactivity) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder, which is mainly manifested by three behavioral characteristics: difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Parents will find that their children: cannot concentrate when studying and get bored easily; often forget things, lose things, etc.; keep moving their hands and feet, have no sense of stability, like to make noise and move around; have poor tolerance, such as interrupting regardless of the occasion, and easily get into conflict with others. Parents feel stressed when raising children with ADHD.

Here are some methods that can be used to help parents improve their coping abilities and better promote the growth of children with ADHD.

1. Set reasonable goals and give timely praise after achieving them

Parents need to have a realistic understanding of their children’s abilities and set reasonable expectations that challenge their children but are within their capabilities. Specific measures include:

(1) “Transforming the Big into the Small”

Breaking down large tasks into a series of small steps and marking each completed step will help children feel that they are making progress and gain a sense of accomplishment.

(2) Clear instructions

When giving children tasks or requirements, you should use concise and clear language to clearly tell them what they need to do and make sure they understand the expected results of each step. For example, you should tell your child that when crossing the road, he must wait until the traffic light turns green and then walk on the zebra crossing, instead of telling him to be careful when crossing the road.

(3) Take regular breaks

When completing tasks, arrange short breaks at appropriate times to prevent children from becoming overly tired or distracted.

Whenever a child achieves a goal or keeps working hard, praise or reward him to maintain his motivation. For example, after a child brushes his teeth at night, give him a sticker. When he gets 10 stickers, reward him with "going somewhere to play on the weekend". Immediate rewards are more effective than rewards promised later, and you can change the form of rewards frequently.

2. Create a regular schedule for daily life and study

Children with ADHD are better at tasks with a fixed pattern, such as setting a fixed space and time, and they are more likely to complete tasks. Plan a clear daily schedule for children with ADHD, including daily living and fixed homework times. In addition, make the rules and behaviors as clear and consistent as possible, and avoid frequent changes. You can also use some visual aids:

Timer

Using a timer can help children improve their ability to manage their time, especially when doing homework.

Note Board

Use it to write down schedules, house rules, and to-do lists to help children remember important information and tasks.

Calendar or planner

Use a calendar or planner to mark important events.

3. Set clear rules and limits on actions

Set up things you want them to follow and things they are not allowed to do. It is best to reach an agreement with your children and write these rules on paper and post them. If your children follow the rules, you should recognize and praise them in time. At this time, the attitude and approach of parents and family members need to be consistent.

4. Place reminders on key matters

If you nag and remind your child too much, no matter how big or small the matter is, it may cause your child to not know which behaviors are most strictly prohibited by your parents. For example, don't remind your child too much about daily matters such as not studying or not tidying up, but focus on serious matters such as bad words and deeds to family members, dangerous behaviors, breaking promises and rules.

5. Provide learning support

Provide a distraction-free, quiet learning environment, away from the noise and activity areas at home. Remove unnecessary items and keep only those necessary for the current task. Reduce distractions around your child that may distract him/her, such as decorations or paintings on the wall. Communicate regularly with teachers at school to understand your child's performance at school and provide necessary learning support. Share effective strategies at home with teachers to see if they can be implemented in the school environment.

6. Social interaction skills training

Parents can help their children improve their interpersonal skills by:

(1) Role Playing

Model different social situations to help children understand and practice correct social behaviors, such as how to start a conversation, take turns talking, and listen;

(2) Group activities

Encourage your child to join interest groups or social activities, such as interest classes or clubs;

(3) Step-by-step guidance

If your child is uncomfortable in large social situations, start with smaller or more familiar gatherings.

(4) Video imitation

Use situations from videos or books and have your child observe and imitate them.

Finally, parents are reminded that if you notice that your child may have characteristics and symptoms of ADHD, please go to a regular medical institution in time. Comprehensive interventions such as educational guidance and drug treatment can effectively help you and your child.

Author: Shanghai Mental Health Center

He Linyao, nurse of child psychiatry department

School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Lecturer Li Conghong from the Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Department

Graphic design: Tang Yiran, Bachelor of Nursing