Step1
Develop a predictable daily routine. All children need structure to thrive, but these children need it especially.
Step2
children of the sea
Have a Plan. Engage the child in actives they enjoy. Know what they enjoy doing and work that into your daily routine.
*biking
*legos
*games (video game time should be limited)
*going to the park
*Swimming
A lot of children with ADHD are full of energy and need an outlet, a place to burn some of that up so they don't get in trouble trying to entertain themselves doing something they shouldn't.
Step3
Find a supplement regimen that works for your family.
One that I have personally seen the benefits of is by Native Remedies.
Ethan takes a chewable pill called BrightSpark three times a day. He also takes drops of a liquid called Focus 3-4 times a day in his juice. His behavior has changed/improved dramatically once he was taking these on a regular basis.
Step4
Use BrightSpark to:
Reduce impulsive, restless and erratic behavior
Listen more calmly, carefully and attentively
Relax and calm down
Follow instructions more easily and be less distracted
Reduce agitated, angry and irritable moods
Lessen outbursts or spasms associated with tick disorders
Step5
Use Focus Formula to:
Support the body's natural ability to concentrate, assimilate information and regulate emotion
Help maintain a normal, healthy attitude during over-stimulation
Naturally facilitate calmness and reasonable clarity of mind
Promote relaxation and balanced mood
Encourage the healthy flow of oxygen to the brain
Step6
Have open communication about your child's condition with anyone else who is working with him such as teachers, coaches, and doctors. If there is any change in his schedule, let the teacher know so she can prepare for any acting out behavior.
Step7
Can you beat the timer when you make your bed and get dressed?
Keep an ongoing conversation with your child so they always know what is going on and what to expect. They are much more likely to cooperate when they have a few warnings about what is going to happen next. Whether it's leaving the park, or warning them they only have 5 more minutes of game or TV time ... and then remind them every minute or so by the time the 5 minutes are up, they are ready for it.
Step8
A Healthy diet is also SO important. Avoid excess sugar and dye's. You may also want to have your child tested for yeast/candida. Some children with behavior problems also have a lot of yeast in their bodies that affect the way they feel and act.
Let you child develop a taste for healthy fruits and vegetables.
Ethan was a sugar fiend, but now that he is on his supplements and no dye's and limited sugar, he doesn't even ask for candy. When he gets a mini candy bar, he eats half of it and then doesn't even want any more.
Most importantly, eliminate anything with the dye's, check the labels on fruit snacks, licorice, any treat that is colored. Give your child all-natural fruit snacks like fruit leathers for a sweet treat.
make sure they get enough protein.
Step9
storytimestandouts.com
Establish a consistent bed-time routine:
Bath
PJ's
Half cup of sugar free hot chocolate (you can add a couple drops of melatonin to help with sleeping if you child is restless through the night)
Story time (1-2 books)
If needed, do some relaxation, teaching your child deep breathing while you rub their back. You can play soft relaxing music in the background too.
Step10
Once they are asleep, take a deep breath, enjoy a cup of tea and do something you enjoy, relax and take care of yourself so you can refuel.
Comments
JMKIT said
on 1/21/2008 Thanks for sharing these ideas and tips. Consistency is probably one of the most important!