Nov 11
17
Tips on Parenting ADHD Children
Having a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can prove to be quite a tremendous challenge for the parents. They need to be constantly monitoring every aspect of their child’s well-being. If the ADHD is not treated properly, it can result in major psychological problems in the future, such as depression, drug abuse, and suicide.
Parenting ADHD children involves overseeing certain key aspects in the child’s life. Let us take a look at each of these aspects.
Medication and Treatment
ADHD is commonly managed with medications. Unfortunately, both the doctor and the parents need to work together to be able to determine if a certain medication is working on the child. If not, the dose may need to be adjusted or be replaced with another medication. It is not uncommon for ADHD kids to try 2 or more types of medications before finally discovering the right drug and dose. Another thing that you should consider about ADHD medication is the development of any side effects. Since most of these drugs are stimulants, they may cause some very frightening side effects. If your child is under medication and any side effects occur, it is important that you stop giving the drug and inform the doctor immediately.
Counseling and Behavior Therapy
Counseling and behavior therapy is a vital aspect of the treatment of ADHD, because the therapist can teach the child the necessary skills that would enable them to cope with their disability. With effective counseling, the ADHD child can become more focused, organized and mellow in temperament. The only problem that you, as the parent, would have is that therapy can be very expensive. However, if your child is to be able to deal with the ADHD, he or she needs to see a counselor regularly. There are ADHD groups and charitable institutions that will provide free counseling to these children.
ADHD Herbal Remedies
Many parents have been attesting to the effectiveness of certain herbal remedies found at home in curbing the behavior problems being exhibited by ADHD kids. Some effective herbs include fish oil, gingko, valerian root, and lemon balm. However, parents who are new to herbs need to be aware that these treatments are also trial and error. You need to be sure that your herbs are of high quality and it is you yourself who needs to determine the right dose to give to your child. Also, these herbs can also produce a number of side effects. Whether you give your child drugs or herbs, always observe caution.
ADHD Diet
There is such a thing as ADHD diet for children. It is a known fact that certain foods can cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms. In general, you have to remove from your child’s diet processed and prepackaged foods. Keep a food journal. Note the foods wherein you have noticed your child’s symptoms appearing or worsening. Strike out that food from your menu the next time you cook your child’s meals.
Stay Involved
It is very important that you stay involved in every aspect of your child’s life, including their schooling. Always maintain constant communication with their teacher. It is important that you inform the school and the teachers that your child has ADHD so that they could apply the appropriate teaching methods. Ask that they keep you updated on your child’s progress in terms of grades and study habits. If your child is having difficulty with his teacher, it is highly advisable that you speak with him or her.
At home, make sure that you sit with your child whenever he or she does homework. Because of their limited attention span, lack of supervision can have your child focusing or doing something else.
Know your Child’s Friends
It is very important that you get to know your child’s friends, and their parents as well. ADHD kids can be easily swayed by their peers into doing something risky or dangerous.
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