Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has three main symptoms: hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Children diagnosed with the disorder have some major challenges to overcome but it is also difficult for the family to adapt to the needs of the child with ADHD.
Siblings of a child with ADHD may feel embarrassed, frustrated and resentful of the fact that the child appears to get the lion’s share of parental attention, so it does need careful explanation and reassurance.
Ways to Adapt Your Routine
Although it can be hard to keep a routine in place that includes, rather than excludes, the child with ADHD, there are ways to do this effectively. Firstly, never use the condition as an excuse for bad behaviour; children need to know the boundaries whatever their problems, and siblings will appreciate the fact that they are treated equally.
The short attention span and impulsive behaviour will inevitably create problems, but it is best to stick to the same routines every day because the child needs a consistent set of rules in order to remain focused; that way the child will know when it is time to do homework, feed his animals, have a bath, etc. These should be the same rules for every child in the household so that no child feels favoured or left out.
Another way to involve all the children together is to set aside structured family time every day, maybe after homework, when each child, including the child with ADHD, can choose the family activity. This could be playing games, going for a walk; whatever they enjoy. If the child plays up, then try as far as possible to ignore him and concentrate on your other children who are co-operating; this can be extremely hard but it is important to get the message across that you will not be giving attention to bad behaviour.
It can also be very helpful, if possible, to spend one-to-one time with your ADHD child so that his needs can be addressed with your full attention. This one-to-one time does need to be extended to each child though; otherwise there is a danger that the siblings will feel resentful.
Physical activity is also important in helping your child cope with the condition, and it is also something you can involve the whole family in. Try to have a routine in place which allows for this to happen, particularly if the child has had long periods of inactivity at school.
Tolerance
One of the important lessons to teach the rest of your family when dealing with an ADHD child is tolerance. It is essential that your immediate family is aware that this is a condition which negatively affects behaviour and is not the fault of you or your child. Reassure your family that you are doing all you can to address your child’s issues and ask for their support and understanding.
ADHD can be a difficult condition to deal with but it is important that you stay consistent and patient. Children with this condition can be exhausting but they can also be a lot of fun to be with.
Source for further information - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Accessed March 10, 2011
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