4 min readNew DelhiNov 1, 2023 05:00 PM IST
First published on: Nov 1, 2023 at 05:00 PM IST
(Written by Dr Amish Vora)
Raising a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex journey, demanding patience and understanding. Yet, with the right strategies and a supportive environment, it can also become a profoundly fulfilling experience, allowing both parent and child to grow and thrive together.
Here is a list of do’s and don’ts you can follow:
Maintain Hope: Do not give up hope. Many children with mild to moderate ADHD will outgrow the condition as they grow older, leading fulfilling lives. Keep faith in your child’s potential.
Stay Positive: Encourage a positive environment for your child. Avoid being overly negative, and encourage all family members to adopt a positive mindset. Treating your child as just another child with unique needs can significantly benefit their self-esteem.
Have Another Child: Do not stop family expansion because of a child’s ADHD. Siblings can help lessen the attention on the child with ADHD, which can ultimately benefit their emotional well-being.
Allow Mistakes: Understand that kids, including those with ADHD, are allowed to make mistakes. Providing some flexibility in your expectations is vital. Small errors are part of the learning process.
Model Control: If you find yourself losing control or becoming too aggressive with your child, take a break. Lead by example and show your child how to manage their emotions constructively.
No Comparisons: Avoid comparing your child with ADHD to other children. Each child progresses at their own pace, and it’s essential to respect their individual journey.
Over 365 million worldwide are thought to have ADHD. (Source: Freepik)
Me Time for Parents: Ensure that both parents share the responsibilities of caring for a child with ADHD. This includes taking time for self-care, so you can recharge and support your child effectively.
Structured Activities: Engage your child in structured activities. Find sports or hobbies that align with their interests, such as athletics, swimming, or gymnastics. These activities can help channel their energy positively.
Structured Play Time: Implement both structured and non-structured playtimes. Structured play is crucial for children with ADHD to help them release excess energy. This activity should last for 60-90 minutes each day.
Routine Mealtimes: Establish regular mealtimes and use these moments for meaningful communication with your child. Mealtimes are an opportunity for bonding and understanding your child’s feelings and thoughts.
Time-Out Zone: Create a time-out zone for your child as a consequence for undesirable behavior. The duration of the time-out should be age-appropriate and serve as a way for the child to cool down and reflect on their actions.
Behavioral Therapy: Be consistent in your approach to discipline. Make sure your child understands the consequences of their actions and is rewarded for good behavior.
Acceptance and Teamwork: Accept the diagnosis of ADHD and work as a team with healthcare professionals. Your pediatrician should be the central figure in your child’s care, ensuring effective communication among various specialists.
By implementing these do’s and avoiding the corresponding don’ts, parents can provide a supportive environment for their child with ADHD, helping them thrive and grow at their own pace. Remember, raising a child with ADHD may be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding and transformative experience for both parents and children.
(Dr Amish Vora is a pediatrician and neonatal intensivist at Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai)
Parenting children with ADHD is tough, but it can be a fulfilling journey for both the parent and child with these tips. (Source: Freepik) 
Over 365 million worldwide are thought to have ADHD. (Source: Freepik)
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