Giving Meaningful Support to Kids with ADHD

There will always be challenges when it comes to parenting. Some challenges are common and run-of-the-mill, while others might require a parent to dig deeper, learn more, and adapt.

Parents and caregivers must determine what to do when a child has colic, an ear infection, pinkeye, or allergies. Similarly, they have to learn and adapt when their child has a learning disability or other concerns that affect their development and daily functioning.

ADHD is a challenge that many parents and caregivers face, but it can be managed well. There are resources available to help provide the best and most effective support available for a child, helping them to live their lives to the fullest.

What is ADHD?

The term ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is used to describe a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. ADHD is identifiable by three main symptoms, which include inattention or difficulty sustaining focus and completing tasks; hyperactivity, which can manifest as restlessness or excessive activity; and impulsivity, which involves being disruptive and interrupting others, as well as difficulty waiting one’s turn.

ADHD is a term that is widely used and common, but some researchers and clinicians prefer to use the term ADD (attention deficit disorder) as a way to describe people who primarily have symptoms of inattention without displaying significant hyperactivity. The signs of ADHD are present and can be discerned in children aged 3-4, but these become more consistent and apparent later, around 6-7 years of age.

It is important to detect ADHD early and to put interventions in place and properly support the child. The strategies that help a child thrive are impacted by how early it’s identified. This is by no means to say that later detection means a parent or caregiver can’t give meaningful support; rather, getting help in place earlier minimizes the angst that can accompany undiagnosed ADHD.

Some of the early signs to pick up on in younger children include having trouble listening and following instructions; having excessive energy that gets used up through activities like running or climbing at inappropriate times; being impulsive and interrupting others as well as not waiting one’s turn; and having a short attention span that results in trouble playing quietly or having a sustained focus on activities.

As you can imagine, one reason it can be hard to diagnose ADHD when a child is younger is that young children tend to act in a way that would suggest ADHD even when it’s not present. By using standardized diagnostic criteria, your child’s medical history and developmental milestones, as well as observing their behavior, a pediatrician, child psychologist, or other qualified healthcare professional can help to evaluate and diagnose your child.

Some Common and Unhelpful Myths About ADHD

There are some myths around ADHD, some of them quite persistent, and they can affect how parents and their children respond to a diagnosis or even fears about ADHD. One myth is that ADHD means that a child lacks intelligence or is lazy.

The issue isn’t about intelligence. When a child has ADHD, it makes it difficult to focus, and being impulsive can make it harder to demonstrate knowledge and learning ability.

Another myth is that ADHD is caused by a lack of discipline in the home or poor parenting. This causes unnecessary anguish for parents and isn’t true. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is linked primarily with environmental and genetic factors and not parenting style.

Yet another myth is that ADHD is the outcome of too much screen time. Too much technology use or screen time may worsen symptoms, but it isn’t a primary cause of ADHD. Some people also think that ADHD is only a childhood disorder that one can outgrow. Rather, it can persist into adulthood and impact one’s life, though some people experience a reduction in their symptoms.

Another myth that is out there is that a person with ADHD isn’t capable of succeeding. The reality is that many people with ADHD achieve great success in their field or profession, and they’ve managed to develop strategies and leverage their strengths to manage their symptoms and overcome challenges.

These and other myths are not only unhelpful, they can even be harmful. Dispelling them helps to create both greater understanding about ADHD and a supportive environment for a child with ADHD.

Exploring The Causes of ADHD

There is ongoing research into the precise causes of ADHD, but the research at present suggests that ADHD is the result of a combination of factors. Some of these include genetic factors, as they tend to run in families. Other contributing factors include one’s brain structure, as differences in brain function and structure have been found, as well as imbalances in neurochemicals.

Lastly, there are environmental factors that may contribute to ADHD, such as prenatal smoking, premature birth, exposure to toxins such as lead, or maternal substance abuse during pregnancy. These various factors may, in combination, result in an increased risk of ADHD, but still aren’t an isolated cause of it.

Symptoms of ADHD in Children to Look Out for

The signs and symptoms of ADHD will likely vary from child to child, but some of the more common symptoms include the following:

Inattention Having difficulty paying attention to details, which often results in making careless mistakes. A child may also struggle to follow instructions and avoid or dislike taking on tasks that require sustained mental effort, like doing their homework, doing chores, or completing a puzzle.

Hyperactivity A child may run, climb, or engage in other physical activities in scenarios where it isn’t appropriate or safe to do so. They may also engage in tapping, fidgeting, or squirming in their seat, or struggle to engage in quiet play.

Impulsivity Interrupting others or intruding on conversations, difficulty waiting their turn, or acting without thinking.

Disorganization A child with ADHD could struggle with their executive function, which includes being able to plan, manage their time, or otherwise organize things.

Consult with a healthcare professional for guidance if you suspect your child may have ADHD. With help, you can determine the best course of action, including treatment options and ways to provide support for your child.

If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, know that there are effective strategies that can help provide effective support for your child so that they thrive. Each child is unique, so you should use a tailored approach while being patient and understanding as you go along. Some strategies you can implement to provide support include the following:

Acceptance and understanding Every parent should accept their child for who they are, loving them without comparing them to others. You can also emphasize their positive qualities and strengths, and educate yourself about ADHD and how it affects your child. Remember, your words have weight, so do your best to focus on positives rather than continually pointing out failures.

Provide emotional support It’s important to listen to and validate your child’s feelings and concerns. Reassure them, be present with and for them as you help them develop effective coping mechanisms. Praising their efforts and accomplishments also helps to boost their self-esteem.

Nurture a supportive environment More than other children, a child with ADHD needs structure and routine to help them flourish. You can help set daily routines to account for chores, homework, and other activities. You can also set clear instructions and expectations, as well as visual cues or aids that can help them stay on task. Instead of punishment, use praise to reinforce and encourage good behavior.

Implement strategies for success In addition to the above, you can set your child up for success by breaking down tasks into smaller and manageable steps, providing frequent breaks and opportunities for physical activity to promote focus and reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD. Visual aids like charts or diagrams can help them remember as well as understand information.

Collaborate and seek support You aren’t alone, so reach out to and collaborate with others. You can work with teachers to develop support strategies in the classroom. There are support groups for parents and caregivers to help connect you with others in a similar situation. You can also seek help from a counselor or therapist to provide you with guidance and additional support.

A counselor or therapist can help your family better understand ADHD, cultivate better communication and conflict resolution skills, and align parents in their parenting strategy to maximize their effectiveness.

Reach out for help to nurture a supportive and understanding environment for your child so that they flourish and aren’t hindered in achieving their full potential. Contact our office for more information today.