If your child has ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), you know that some days are harder than others.
Some children with this disorder have difficulty with the ability to concentrate, organize, and accomplish goals, the skills needed to function in everyday life. They may talk too much, interrupt others or make noise in class; these are just some of their habits.
"Importantly, over time, the brains of children with ADHD achieve normal structural development," says psychologist Sharon Saline. Children with ADHD often feel misunderstood, judged or shamed, but with support, they can thrive.
Here are four specific things that a child with ADHD wants parents or people around them to know before reacting to a certain situation or behavior.
#1 When parents are upset, kids get upset too
When frustrating moments occur with the child, parents begin to manage their feelings first. Physical actions, perhaps a louder voice or temper tantrums, all adversely affect children with ADHD. When you get bored, the kids get bored too.
#2 Children (and parents) need compassion
"Ask yourself what it would be like to walk in their shoes one day," says psychologist Saline. It is up to parents to help them accept their traits.
#3 Children want to make decisions
"Kids with ADHD really don't want to be told what to do," says Saline. They spend all day listening to instructions that don't necessarily make sense to their brains. stick to your organizational system is a failed attempt. So, let them make some decisions themselves," concludes the psychologist.
#4 Children feel proud when their parents appreciate their successes
Children with ADHD want proof of words, even when they fail. "We want kids to see their own efforts so they can improve over time," says Saline.
Source: Today
