From the article: First Five Things to Do After Your Child Is Diagnosed with ADHD
If you're the parent of a child with ADHD, chances are you've gotten quite an education since you first heard that diagnosis. What would you say today to parents who are just getting the news? Tell them about that book that explained everything, that website full of resources, that e-mail group you still lean on, that experience with your child that made you see things differently. Those of us who have been there have important gifts to give those who have not yet done that. Offer your words of wisdom and experience here. Tell Your Tips
Gifts that Conflict with School
- I was happy when my daughter was finally diagnosed -- now we had a clear reason for her school issues. However, I didn't know then what I know now: ADHD is not a learning disability. It is simply one manifestation of many gifts that conflict with school that I identified in my research on teen learning. I recommend explaining this to your child, no matter what his/her age. Then be sure she has opportunities to develop her true gifts and strengths -- not simply finding ways to fit into the school mold (although that is also a reasonable approach if it works for your child). My favorite book was Driven to Distraction. Now, I would also recommend reviewing my research and free articles www.PositiveLeaders.com
- —Guest Christine Duvivier
advice on adhd
- if you've recently been told that your child has adhd, it will shock you at first but don't panic because there are plenty of resources to help you through what lies ahead;there are lots of really great books, websites and your family doctor or paediatrician is there to answer any questions you may have;also, there are support groups where you can go and share your thoughts and feelings with others who know what you are going through;at these groups, you will learn a lot of new things and listen to how others have learned to cope;don't lose faith and be patient;and most of all, stress to your child that having adhd does not make him or her "dumb" or "bad";it's a neurological condition that can be treated with medication and/or a special diet and some very famous and gifted people had or have adhd;most that have it are highly intelligent, resourceful, imaginative, sensitive people and are just as good as anyone else;keeping the child's self-esteem high is really important
- —Guest Teresa
Educate yourself
- Research and learn everything you possibly can about ADHD. It is now your job to be your child's #1 advocate and you can't do that if you don't educate yourself. A few resources that have helped me include: adhdguide.blogspot.com/ (blog) www.trusera.com (has a wonderful ADHD community) Books: "20 Questions to Ask If Your Child Has ADHD" by Mary Fowler "The ADHD Book of Lists" by Sandra Rief "The Survival Guide for Kids With ADD or ADHD" by John F. Taylor
- —carouselgirl2
Tell them how special they are!
- Kids with ADD and ADHD are amazing. They have gifts that will help them to be extremely successful in life but they need to be told this as otherwise they may hear only the negative aspects of ADD - that they can't sit still, don't pay attention, don't try hard enough, etc. Kids with ADD are usually very bright and their curiosity and inquisitiveness are what others see as distractibility. Their restlessness gives them great energy. They DO try hard and given proper direction and support, WILL be successful! There is no question parenting them is hard work but if parents hang in there and direct and help the kids, they will reward you with their intelligence, wit, creativity and energy.
- —stanleybrooks
Vitamins
- If you have a picky eater, make sure they are getting enough vitamins. Let's face it, mac and cheese is not nutritious enough to give your child the focus/attention they need in school. Also, look into a fatty acid (omega 3) deficiency which symptoms include hyperactivity. Google studies that gave students fish oil (omega 3) for ADHD. One last thing, look into food allergies which can cause inflammation that can contribute to irritability and hyperactivity. PWC
- —ParentWithConcerns
Turn off the TV, get outside!!
- Nature will help your ADHD kid release pent-up energy and can have a somewhat calming effect. See if you can give them a special job to do outside that is simple -- watering plants, feeding outdoor animals, whatever. Praise them or give them rewards for completing these every X number of days (you decide how many X is). You will probably have to walk them through it a handful of times or more before they can do it fully on their own.
- —Guest Rebecca
De-clutter, Involvement, Relaxation
- Put away all the toys! Keep out the puzzles, games, books, DVDs and other educational materials and make it a point to spend at least an hour together playing a game or reading a book. Make bath-time an everyday affair where the child is not playing with a bunch of bath toys. Sit next to the bath and talk with your child. Water can be a very soothing tool. After the bath, massage lotion onto your child's body, for relaxing and loving physical contact that helps the child feel at ease. I am currently trying all of these, plus re-introducing vitamin suppliments.
- —Atikalon
