Kids Awareness Series

ADHD children like children who do not have ADHD do not always do what they are told. No child behaves perfectly all the time every single day, however a child with ADHD seems to be at a greater risk of noncompliant behaviors that will anger, infuriate or disappoint their parents.  By very definition, children with ADHD have difficulty with self-control and do not organize well, have problems controlling their behaviors and predicting that there are consequences for their behaviors.  Russell Barkley, a psychologist and leading expert on ADHD says it well when he advises parents of some simple instructions in dealing and correcting behavioral problems.  (1) It is much more effective to give clear instructions (2) rearrange work so that it is more interesting and motivating for them (3) redirect the child’s behavior towards future goals versus immediate gratification and (4) provide immediate rewards for a completed task or adherence to rules.

As a therapist, what I frequently find when a parent brings their child in for counseling, is that the parent is angry; frustrated and seems to have lost perspective of what the problem actually is.  Parents when they are angry or frustrated end up yelling at their child and this usually will provide a reverse effect in your child (they become even more noncompliant and end up tuning you out).  Try to keep things in perspective and remember that your child has a disability and never argue with your child when they are not listening to you.  Here are some simple rules to follow when parenting your ADHD child.  By no means is this list conclusive in nature and a health care professional may be of instance in developing a behavioral management plan with you and provide feedback on it’s effectiveness.

Part 1 of the list will follow.

One Response to “Parenting Techniques for the ADHD Child”