Being a parent comes with numerous, overwhelming responsibilities. If having a regular child to raise wasn’t challenging enough, a child with an ADHD diagnosis comes with its own set of obstacles. Having a child who bounces from one room to another, has a hard time hearing the word no, and acts on impulses sounds fun… right? Sometimes, that fun and loving child that you have becomes one who won’t give you an ounce of personal space. During our time together, I will discuss strategies that will help your child become the best person they can be.

Children may have similar experiences, but they are not a one-size-fits-all.

Before I begin to name any helpful suggestions, it is important to acknowledge the diversity within the heart of your child. Even though similar patterns have been researched with kids with ADHD, it does not mean that every treatment or suggestion will work for you and your family. Every child has a unique story because of the experiences they have gone through. It is important to understand that not all strategies are best for each involved child.

Just Becoming Involved

When it comes to completing a task, children with ADHD have a hard time. Being able to focus on one thing until completion can feel impossible. So, it may take the support of a parent in the room to motivate the child. Whether it is completing a chore or finishing homework, be purposeful about being in the room while the child completes the project. If the child is becoming too flustered, take a break for 5 minutes and come back to the task.

5 Positive Pennies

It can become common for parents who are stressed themselves to constantly lecture their children. When a child often acts on his/her impulses, common phrases become “stop! Don’t do that. Behave. That’s not safe.” This strategy helps parents notice positive actions and reinforces good behavior instead of bad.

• First, start the day with 5 pennies in your left pocket.
• During the day, compliment your child for good behavior and move each penny over to the right
  pocket with each compliment.
• The next day, repeat the same process.

Sign Up for CBT Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be used with children who have an ADHD diagnosis. Common therapeutic interventions will help the children with emotional regulation, empathy, and social skills. Group therapy will also show children that they are not alone in their experiences.

Interested in More?

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Contact us for more resources and information about group therapy and ADHD.

Gabby will be starting an “ADHD Coping Skills” group for elementary children, starting on September 18.  Please call our office to schedule your child.  There is no cost for this group, but spots are limited.

Gabby Maddox, Counseling Intern

References

• Coelho, L. F., Barbosa, D. L. F., Rizzutti, S., Bueno, O. F. A., & Miranda, M. C. (2017). Group cognitive behavioral therapy for children and adolescents with ADHD. Psicologia: Reflexão E Crítica : Psychology: Research and Review, 30(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41155-017-0063-y
• Neppl, T. K., Jeon, S., Diggs, O., & Donnellan, M. B. (2020). Positive parenting, effortful control, and developmental outcomes across early childhood. Developmental Psychology, 56(3), 444-457. You Need a Training. (2024). 2ce hours play therapy for children with ADHD [Video]. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ldkcjNtrGA