Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

Tips for Home

Caring for children with ADHD may be challenging, but it is important to remember that these children can learn successfully. It is critical that parents remember that some of their child's disruptive behavior is a manifestation of the disability and that the challenge is finding ways to help their child change the inappropriate behavior. Key to this is remembering to focus on the need for structure and routine for your child's daily schedule and thereby reinforcing the importance of learning self-control and self-regulation. The following are suggestions for parents:

• Focus on discrete rewards and consequences for appropriate and inappropriate behavior:

  • Tangible rewards and treats;

  • Movie night for a good week at school;

  • Removal of privileges; and

  • Time-out from reinforcing activities: the child is essentially removed from situations that foster inappropriate behavior.

• Set a daily routine and stick to it. Bedtime and preparation for school are much easier if there is a structure already in place.

• Have tangible reminders:

  • A big clock in the bedroom;

  • Charts for chores;

  • Assignment pad to record homework and a specific folder to put work in upon completion; and

  • Gain the child's attention before speaking to him or her. Have the child repeat back directions for things that are really important.

• Avoid the following:

  • Repeating patterns of inappropriate behavior followed by ineffective punishment;

  • Administering consequences without prior warning or without the child understanding why he or she is receiving them; and

  • Responding inconsistently to inappropriate behaviors.