Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects a significant percentage of children and adolescents, impacting their ability to learn and interact socially. Additionally, raising children with behavioral or learning difficulties can pose unique challenges for parents, leading to feelings of frustration, guilt, and grief.
While medication is often used to manage core ADHD symptoms, non-drug interventions, such as parenting/family training, can also help to minimize the daily impacts of ADHD. Parenting training aims to provide parents with strategies and support to navigate the challenges associated with raising a child with ADHD. This intervention is especially effective when combined with other treatments, offering a holistic approach to ADHD management.
Evidence-based guidelines suggest that parenting training is beneficial for children aged 5 to 17, with greater evidence supporting its use in children under five and families of children with co-occurring oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal duration and format of parent training programs.
The World Health Organization also highlights the importance of parenting interventions as they strengthen the parent-child relationship, provide alternatives to violent discipline, and reduce emotional problems in children. There are various options available for parents to access parenting training, including online programs like the Triple P Parenting Program and the Happy Families parenting ADHD course. In addition, there are ongoing research initiatives, such as the free, online group parenting program by Bond University researchers, which aims to develop an evidence-based parenting intervention.
The key objective of these programs is to enhance parents’ understanding of their child’s experiences and provide compassionate responses to their ADHD and behavioral symptoms. Instead of solely focusing on the child’s outward behavior, these interventions encourage parents to embrace their child’s uniqueness and assist them in their struggles.
Here are some strategies that parents can incorporate to support their child with ADHD:
1. Set boundaries and communicate clear expectations while maintaining compassion.
2. Break instructions into simple tasks and allow the child to focus on one area of improvement at a time. Common areas for improvement may include organization, time management, and planning.
3. Collaborate with the child and ask how you can assist them. Stay calm and celebrate small achievements along the way.
4. Seek to understand and connect with your child, even during moments of strain or disconnection. Remember that disagreements do not have to destabilize the parent-child relationship.
5. Prioritize self-care and connect with other parents who can offer support. Avoid placing your anxiety, stress, and fears onto your child. Seek professional guidance from friends or psychologists to create a safe and open environment for your child to share their thoughts and feelings.
By implementing these strategies and accessing appropriate support, parents can effectively navigate the challenges associated with raising a child with ADHD. Creating a supportive and understanding environment fosters the child’s development and overall well-being
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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