Blog// LGBT Adoptive Parents

Parenting an ADHD Adopted Child

ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In this article, this article will highlight some practical tips for parenting a child and answer what more can you implement in your home to ease the frustration and set your child up for success in their everyday life. 

Set a Predictable Schedule 

Having structure and an established routine around the home will help children with ADHD to follow it. Due to them being easily distractible, consistent and clear reminders and a predictability will set them up for successful following of a schedule. Visual checklists or cues and regular eating and bedtimes are some strategies you can implement in setting a predictable schedule. 

 

Encourage Pauses 

By taking time to stop and breathe and think, you are creating a space where everyone in the family unit can reflect before acting. When encouraging your child to practice this regularly, it can help them manage their impulse control as well as promote thoughtfulness in making decisions. 

 

Plan Collaborating Coping Techniques 

It is important to make sure you are making your child feel supported and not alone. Get to know your child and engage in their life so that you know what they enjoy and what they do not like to do. In finding out your child’s preferences, you are able to create activities that are engaging to your child and more likely to keep their attention. Knowing your child and speaking with them on what they find difficult can help you plan collaborative coping solutions that will alleviate some of these challenges. 

 

Maintain a Positive Mindset and Reinforcement 

Avoid comparisons to other children and their physical, emotional, and mental development. Your child is unique and positively approaching challenges with them will reinforce a healthy and supportive environment. Organize your emphasis on the positive aspects of your child’s brain such as the creativity, novel ways of approaching problem solving, and imagination. 

 

Embracing these strengths of your child reframes your home environment as a productive and loving one. Also letting go small things and celebrating the small success of both your child and yourself will enforce a positive mindset and contribute to happier mental health. 

 

Consider Healthy Changes to Daily Life 

Establishing daily patterns in food and entertainment is integral to healthy functioning of your child. Limiting sugary foods such as candy and sodas that can contribute to hyperactivity is advised for a child diagnosed with ADHD. Additionally, focusing on foods like fruits and lean meats is a great step toward establishing a healthy diet. 

 

Engaging your child in active hobbies like exercise, exploration of the outdoors, and arts and crafts will keep their minds and bodies occupied. Avoid excessive television or video game screen time and sitting in one position that won’t lead to productive release of energy. 

 

What’s most important is the health of your child and yourself. Following these tips can help you prioritize that and lead a happy, healthy lifestyle. 

 

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