According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.1 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Raising a child with ADHD can be challenging, particularly when they are in a state of overdrive. During these times, children with ADHD may be impulsive, hyperactive, or easily distracted, making it difficult for parents to regain control.
If you’re a parent of a child with ADHD, you know how important it is to help your child regain control when they are in overdrive. In this article, we will provide you with 10 expert strategies to help you manage your child’s behavior and support them in regaining control.
These strategies are based on research, expert advice, and real-world experience, and can be tailored to your child’s individual needs. Whether your child has just been diagnosed with ADHD or you’re a seasoned parent looking for new tips, this article is designed to give you the tools you need to help your child thrive.
Create a Calm Environment
Children with ADHD often have trouble regulating their emotions and may become overwhelmed or anxious in chaotic or noisy environments. Creating a calming environment can help your child feel more relaxed and in control.
Tips for creating a calming environment:
- Reduce noise levels by using noise-cancelling headphones, white noise machines, or earplugs.
- Use soft, calming colors in your child’s bedroom or play area.
- Minimize clutter and visual distractions.
- Consider using aromatherapy with calming scents such as lavender or chamomile.
- Create a designated quiet space for your child to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed or overstimulated.
By creating a calm environment, you can help your child feel more grounded and in control, reducing the likelihood of overdrive.
Positive Reinforcement or Rewards
Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your ADHD child for positive behaviors, which can encourage them to repeat those behaviors in the future. By focusing on the things your child is doing right, you can help build their confidence and encourage them to make positive changes.
Tips for using positive reinforcement:
- Be specific and timely with your praise. For example, “Great job on focusing during your homework time!” is more effective than “Good job.”
- Use a variety of rewards, such as verbal praise, stickers, small toys, or extra screen time.
- Make the rewards immediate and proportional to the behavior. For example, a small reward for completing a simple task, and a bigger reward for a more challenging accomplishment.
- Involve your child in setting goals and choosing rewards. This can help build their motivation and sense of control.
- Be consistent with your rewards, so your child knows what to expect and feels motivated to continue positive behaviors.
By using positive reinforcement, you can help your child feel encouraged and motivated to behave positively, even when they are struggling with overdrive.
Build a Routine
Children with ADHD can benefit greatly from having a routine. A routine can provide structure and predictability, which can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of control for your child. A routine can also help your child develop good habits, such as avoiding unhealthy sleep patterns and regular exercise.
Tips for developing a routine:
- Involve your child in the creation of the routine. This can help build their sense of control and responsibility.
- Keep the routine consistent, with regular times for meals, homework, play, and sleep.
- Use visual cues, such as a daily schedule or checklists, to help your child stay on track.
- Be flexible and willing to adjust the routine as needed, depending on your child’s needs and preferences.
By establishing a routine, you can help your child feel more in control and reduce the likelihood of overdrive.
Children with ADHD can often have difficulty following instructions, particularly if they are given in a chaotic or overstimulating environment. Providing clear instructions can help your child understand what is expected of them and reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings or frustration.
Here’s to calming down your ADHD Child!
Parenting a child with ADHD can be challenging, particularly when your child is in overdrive. However, there are many expert strategies you can use to help your child regain control and thrive. In this article, we have provided 3 expert strategies, including creating a calming environment, using positive reinforcement, and developing a routine.
If you are a parent of a child with ADHD, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Raising a child with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right tools, therapy and support, you can help your child succeed. Remember to take care of yourself, seek support when needed, and celebrate your child’s successes along the way.
By using these expert strategies, you can help your child regain control when they are in overdrive, and support them in reaching their full potential. We hope that this article has provided you with the information and tools you need to help your child thrive.
