ADHD in children: how parents can help

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) battle with self-esteem issues, school performance and anxiety as well as interpersonal relationships. A Mediclinic expert advises how to implement behaviour strategies that help your child manage their symptoms. 

One of the most challenging symptoms of ADHD in children is that they’re unable to follow instructions. They battle to stay focused, which ultimately affects the ability to process and carry out goal-driven tasks. Schools usually view their behaviour as disruptive, and they may have social difficulties because they’re unable to regulate their impulses and emotions. Children with ADHD also suffer from anxiety. This results in difficulty in delaying gratification as well as restlessness. Retaining information, learning, and keeping their surroundings tidy are additional problems.

Establishing a routine for your child with ADHD

There are several behaviour strategies that parents or carers can implement to help a child manage their symptoms. The key is to establish structure and routine for your child, which helps make life more predictable for them. Because there is so much confusion in the child’s life, it also helps to create a more organised environment.

“Regulating outside factors gives the child a sense of mastery and control, which can help organise the chaos on the inside. Organising things according to colour, for example, can be a good aid because children with ADHD are more visual,” advises Karabo Mamogale, a clinical psychologist at Mediclinic Welkom.

A child with ADHD should be urged to exercise and spend time outdoors as it helps them to focus. “Encourage more sensory play without overstimulating them. Gardening, hiking, fishing, and time spent in natural surroundings have been proven to help children with ADHD to focus.”

As a parent, try to understand how your child regulates their emotions – particularly anger and anxiety. This will help you deal more effectively with their behaviour by responding to what they are doing rather than reacting to it, says Mamogale.

Limit stimulants

It also helps to manage external stimulants, like the type of media you allow your child to consume and the amount of time they spend gaming or glued to a screen. “Content that exacerbates anger or anxiety, such as horror movies, is not beneficial to children,” warns Mamogale.

In addition, restrict access to foods with a high sugar content and caffeine, which both have a stimulant effect.

What not to do with a child who has ADHD

• Do not compare your child to other children. This does not allow them the opportunity to feel seen and heard
• Do not be bullied by your child. This will help them to regulate impulsive behaviours, like interrupting other people in conversations.

Look after yourself

Do not neglect self-care. Reach out to a healthcare professional if you’re struggling to manage your child. “Sweating the small stuff will result in you getting impatient and being overwhelmed by the child,” says Mamogale. “Rather, remain curious about how they see the world and help them explore their environment in their unique way.”

To find a paediatrician or mental health professional near you, go to www.mediclinic.co.za