5 Pointers For Helping Children Manage ADHD Symptoms

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What is ADHD? 

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that is characterized by patterns of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. ADHD is typically diagnosed during one’s childhood, but could be diagnosed later into adulthood if symptoms are consistent. If you have a child diagnosed with ADHD, they are typically diagnosed with mild, moderate, or severe ADHD. Symptoms of ADHD will look different for every child. Oftentimes ADHD is mistaken in children for “being too hyper” or “poor listeners”. Although children with ADHD can become restless and struggle to focus, it is important to consider the various symptoms they experience. 

Because ADHD children are inattentive, you may find that they:

  • Have trouble focusing 

  • Need direction or reminders 

  • Struggle to stay organized 

  • Can become easily distracted 

  • May not listen or “tone out others” 

Due to their hyperactivity, they may also:

  • Fidget with their hands or seem restless 

  • Struggle to sit still 

  • Climb, run, or jump at any location 

  • Make mistakes, such as leaving a door open or not brushing their teeth

  • Rush through homework or chores 

Children with ADHD are also impulsive, and may often:

  • Lose their temper quickly or become easily frustrated 

  • Interrupt others as they are speaking 

  • Say or do things without thinking first 

  • Have trouble waiting for their turn or become impatient 

How will these coping skills help children later in life?

Researchers find that ADHD begins in one’s childhood, and develops into adulthood. It is best for children to learn coping skills at a young age, so later into adulthood they can better manage their symptoms. With my 5 pointers for helping your child manage ADHD symptoms, your child is more likely to develop healthy coping skills for their ADHD. As they grow into adulthood, they may experience more confidence, improved social skills, and infrequent symptoms of ADHD. 

Here are my 5 parenting tips for helping children manage ADHD symptoms: 

  • Develop a routine for your child: Children with ADHD do best when they have a consistent routine and schedule. A schedule guides them to stay focused and know what to expect. Along with this, your child will develop organizational skills and have an easier time managing tasks as they arise. Depending on your child’s needs and school schedule, setting a routine may look like sticking to a sleeping schedule or chore schedule. The more consistent the routine, the more likely your child will have the ability to focus, have control, feel safe, and know what to expect. 

  • Use praise and encouragement: Remember a time where you were having a rough day and needed an encouraging word to push through? Just like we need encouragement and motivation, children do as well. Research shows that praise and encouragement is beneficial for all children, especially those with ADHD. This may look like praising your child for cleaning their room, or encouraging them for an upcoming test. 

  • Make time for quality time: Spending time with your child is one of the most important aspects of parenting. It is when your child has the time to experience your love and affection, while building their sense of trust and safety. Quality time will look different for every child. Research shows that quality time with children builds their confidence and ability to connect. Whether you can spend time with your child independently or with the family together, your child’s ADHD symptoms decrease. 

  • Develop clear and consistent rules: Just as children need a routine, it is important to remain consistent with rules for your children. Children learn best when rules and expectations are clear. Rules may look like setting limits on your child’s electronic use, or limiting their sugar intake before bed. With clear and consistent rules, your child is more likely to succeed at listening, staying focused, and completing tasks. 

  • Have your child exercise and/or play: Children with ADHD benefit from daily activity and exercise. Researchers have found that exercise and play for children with ADHD improves their focus, while releasing their energy for a better night’s sleep. Some ideas for play and exercise include: going to parks, taking walks, and getting your child involved in activities after school. For the busier days, try implementing small exercises for your child, such as jumping jacks, yoga, or dancing. Children with ADHD also benefit from music, art, and other outlets of creativity - it is important to find what your child enjoys best.

My final tip for parents: 

As you seek to help your child manage symptoms of ADHD, know that developing a new routine and treating ADHD takes time. Give yourself and your child grace, as you both seek to navigate what works best. It is okay to have those days where a schedule may fall apart, or your child may not want to do activities. Just as I would encourage children to “do the best you can with what you have”,  it is also my encouragement to you! 

The Counseling Collective can help support your child or yourself.  The mental health therapists at our office also offer counseling for a variety of issues including trauma using EMDR, depression, anxiety, grief, and couples counseling. We work with kids, teens, adults, and couples. We also offer online counseling services which can be great for people with busy schedules or for people who live in parts of Pennsylvania with limited counseling options. You can check out our website to see the full list of counseling services that we offer. Or, Schedule An Appointment here.