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Sixstrategiesfor parentingkidswith ADHD
BY TANYA SCHOOR AND ERIN PAGE
If your child has been diagnosed, or you suspect they might have ADHD, you’re probably wondering how to best support them. While not comprehensive or delving into medication, the following strategies can aid in parenting children diagnosed with ADHD, helping kids thrive and embrace their best qualities. Practi ce mi ndful ness Dr. Lisa Marotta, a child psychologist in Edmond who teaches mindfulness, emphasizes focusing on transition times. Because children with ADHD can have a hard time shifting their attention from one activity to the next, especially those they don’t enjoy, transitioning from home to school or playtime to homework are opportunities to stop, rest and prepare for the next activity. 1 Marotta encourages families to try two exercises. The first is “sitting still like a frog,” quieting the mind for one minute and concentrating on isolating sounds around you. The second is “STOP,” which stands for
2 Marotta recommends downloading the Calm and Headspace apps, which families can use together to practice relaxation techniques, reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Get seri ous about sl eep Speaking of sleep, according to a study in the Journal of Sleep Research , up to 70 percent of parents of children with ADHD say their Stop, Take three deep breaths, Observe and Pick the next right thing to do. “These techniques provide a pause in an otherwise busy brain and body, which can help slow the child down enough to use their better judgment,” Marotta says. Transition exercises can also be beneficial when kids with ADHD hyper-focus, concentrating intensely on an activity or task they enjoy like gaming, crafting or reading a good book, often at the expense of other things that need to get done. Explaining to a child with ADHD why it’s difficult for him or her to transition can be helpful. Parents also benefit from a brain break.
The diagnosis of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in a child can be daunting and, unfortunately, is an increasingly common reality for families in Oklahoma and throughout the United States. The 2017-2018 National Survey on Children’s Health reports roughly 10 percent of Oklahoma students are currently diagnosed with ADHD, higher than the 8 percent national average. A study by the Center for Disease Control identified Oklahoma among the states with the most significant increases in ADHD prevalence. “ADHD is a neurological condition due to differences in the brain anatomy or ‘wiring,’” explains Cathy Goett, a certified ADHD coach in Oklahoma City who has raised two children with ADHD. “ADHD is not laziness or stupidity. Children with ADHD can be challenging, but many are extremely bright. They just learn differently from the general population.”
44 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / FEBRUARY 2020
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