Have you noticed 8 year-old anxiety symptoms or ADHD symptoms in your child? You likely took your child to a physician or counselor to determine what you can do to help your child, especially since those with these challenges have difficulty even completing their daily activities. If you have received a diagnosis, these are a few things you can do.
Recognizing ADHD in Children
First, you should understand the symptoms of ADHD. For example, your children may have difficulty focusing on a project or activity for very long. This short attention span also results in children who get distracted easily. They may not have the ability to complete tedious tasks or those that take more than a few minutes.
Your children may also make mistakes on easy-to-complete tasks, such as schoolwork. They may appear forgetful and lose things easily. You may recognize your children’s inability to listen to you, and they may not follow your instructions. They also may appear disorganized, especially when working on something. In addition, they may flit from task to task or activity to activity.
If they have hyperactivity challenges, your kids may also find it challenging to sit still, be quiet or remain calm. They fidget constantly and may act without thinking, including interrupting, not recognizing danger, talking and moving constantly and not waiting their turn.
Giving Them Medications
Your children’s physicians may prescribe ADHD medications if the condition is severe enough. However, you need to carefully watch how your kids react to these medications. Your doctor may also suggest supplements or over-the-counter medications to help calm your child. You should conduct research to find the best over the counter meds for ADHD child and carefully monitor them. Share behavioral, mood, attitude and activity changes with your pediatrician.
Healthy Lifestyle Practices
Some of the best things you can do for your children after they receive an ADHD diagnosis involve simple lifestyle changes. First, build a structure for your child every day. Create routines that promote success, such as preparing the night before for the next day and setting specific times for meals, homework, play, etc. Also, keep a regular bedtime so you can regulate their sleep.
Like many adults, your children may have difficulty or become overwhelmed with large tasks, so break them down into smaller pieces your kids can do quickly. Turn off the TV, computer and video games when you need your children to focus, and limit electronic time in general. Instead, encourage physical activities, such as playing outside. In fact, exercise is a key factor in ADHD management because it helps expel excess energy.
You can also encourage your kids to speak what they think. However, you should also teach them to take a moment to think about what they want to say before they say it aloud. This helps them analyze whether they should follow through on their thoughts. Organize your home and give your children specific spaces to complete tasks, such as a homework space or reading nook.
Like other children with ADHD, you should consistently show your kids that you believe in them. Creating a plan that helps them is a great start. You can also learn about the best multivitamin for ADHD and find a great counselor if you need extra help.
