A Parent’s Guide to ADHD

Let’s face it … raising children is a wild ride in itself. Add ADHD to the mix, and sometimes it may feel like juggling a dozen bouncing balls at once. But don’t worry – you are not alone! ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children, and once armed with the right tools and support, your child will most definitely thrive. So, let’s get down to what ADHD is, how to recognize it, and – most importantly – how to best support your little whirlwind.

ADHD isn’t all about being “hyper” or easily distracted. It is a brain-based condition that affects attention, impulse control and energy levels. It is not caused by bad parenting or too much screen time – so no, it is not your fault! It is just how some people’s brains are wired. Children with ADHD often have trouble with focus, following instructions and keeping impulses in check. But they tend to be really creative, energetic and full of big ideas.

ADHD symptoms tend to appear early, and while all children can be a little unfocused or bouncy at times, ADHD behaviours are more extreme and persistent.

Here’s what you might notice:

Inattentive Symptoms:

• Zoning out mid-conversation
• Constantly losing things like toys and school supplies
• Avoiding tasks that require prolonged effort
• Forgetting daily tasks

Hyperactivity & Impulsivity Symptoms:

• Fidgeting, tapping or squirming non-stop
• Interrupting conversations and blurting out answers
• Running, jumping or climbing in all the wrong places
• Talking at lightning speed without pausing to breathe

If these behaviours are happening often and getting in the way of school, friendships or family life, it might be time to talk to a doctor.

Diagnosing ADHD requires collaboration between medical doctors, parents and school teachers. While only a doctor can diagnose ADHD, the will ask for input from parents and teachers. A comprehensive assessment would include:

• An appointment with the doctor
• Medical history review
• Behaviour checklists and questionnaires
• Observations by parents and teachers

There is no one-size-fits-all approach! Your doctor will be the best person to advise on a specific treatment plan for your child. Here’s a few idea’s that we know to be useful.

Here’s what might be part of your child’s ADHD toolkit:

Medication must only be used in consultation with the correct professionals! Medication can help some children focus and manage impulses. But they’re not magic pills!

Behavioural Therapy can help parents learn how to set clear expectations, reward good behaviour and create structure. It can also provide children with coping skills and teach them how to regulate their emotions. Intentionally teaching children social skills will help them understand how to deal with friendships.

School Accommodations can help children cope within their academic environment. Special accommodations like extended time on tests or seating arrangements can help our children achieve their potential and minimize distractions. Teachers may like to include movement breaks for children. Providing short breaks in long lessons help children to reset and refocus their attention on the task at hand. movement-based activities.

Lifestyle Changes That Help

• Regular Exercise: Movement burns off excess energy and boosts focus.
• Healthy Eating: A diet with plenty of protein and omega-3s will help.
• Consistent Sleep Routine: Sleep is problematic for many children with ADHD. Having a set bedtime routine is very important and helps them to sleep better.
• Screen Time Limits: Late night scrolling negatively impacts the brain’s ability to switch off. Ideally children should not be exposed to any screens for two hours before bedtime.

Life can feel like organized chaos for families with children struggling with ADHD. A few structured routines can help you create a calmer home environment.

• Stick to Routines: Predictability is your best friend! Make a structured schedule with very clear expectations.
• Break Tasks into Steps: Big tasks are overwhelming so try breaking them down into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise good behaviour and offer rewards for desired behaviour, such as stickers or extra playtime.
• Create a Distraction-Free Zone: A clutter-free workspace can help with the focusing process.
• Teach Self-Regulation Skills: Deep breathing, mindfulness and fidget tools can help them manage their emotions.
• Be Patient and Stay Positive: Stay calm and focus on progress, not perfection!

Partnering with teachers can make all the difference and help your child to experience success in the classroom.

• Keep the lines of communication open. Frequent, honest conversations will always yield the best results.
• Request accommodations as advised by medical professionals.
• Check on progress regularly and adjust accordingly.

ADHD is not a life sentence!  It is simply the way the brain is wired. Providing our children with the right strategies and assistance and understanding the way they learn and function best will allow our children to succeed both at home and at school. All too often, children with ADHD are creative and energetic and they hold untapped potential that just needs our help to allow them to achieve.

So, take a deep breath, celebrate the small wins, and remember: you’ve got this, and so does your child!

Written by Clare van Eeden