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adhdSo, your child has been diagnosed with ADHD. What now? Don’t panic! You might want to know a little bit first about the causes of ADHD. Once you understand what causes this, you will always have a grasp of what it really is and how to go about dealing with it.

One cause is thought to be genetic, meaning it is inherited from the parents. A child with ADHD, who may carry a specific version of a particular gene, has thin brain tissue in the parts of the brain that is associated with attention. Research has shown that the condition is not permanent and may develop as the child grows older.

A second factor that may cause ADHD is the environment. It is said that exposure to tobacco and alcohol at an early age causes this type of disorder. If the mother had complications or an infection during pregnancy, it could have contributed to the condition. Brain injury when the child was young is yet another factor. A definite factor associated with ADHD is a child’s diet. Ingesting artificial food coloring and chemicals such as sodium benzoate have been linked to hyperactivity.

Now that the causes have been identified, let’s move on to what you can do to help your child.

It is as a given fact that you follow your doctor’s advice. But there are also other ways of helping your child when he is at home or at school. This requires a team effort and cooperation among members of the family, teachers and doctors. Being a parent to a child who has ADHD is not easy. In fact, it is very challenging. Your child will need more structure and a clear set of expectations. You will definitely have to change some of your ways in order to help your child. Here are some suggestions:

1. Create a routine. Give him specific times for his activities like eating, playing, naps, homework and sleeping. Communicate this schedule with your child, if he is old enough. If you make changes to his schedule, you need to let him know and explain why these changes are happening so as not to upset him.

2. House Rules should be simple and clear. I can’t stress enough the importance of explanation; even minute details should be explained; Importantly, communicate the consequences of breaking the rules.

3. Be certain that your child understands directions. Find ways on how to get his attention without upsetting him. Directions should be short but concise. Ask your child to repeat instructions so you can tell that he understands.

4. Reward good behavior. Praise your child when he has done something good.

5. Children with ADHD should be supervised at all times because they are inherently impulsive.

6. Choose a good spot where he can do his homework without distractions (such as the TV). Encourage your child to take breaks from homework also. You’re not a slave driver.

7. Do not fall into the trap of focusing only on your child’s grades in school. Focus on his learning and improvement.

8. Request for a progress update from your child’s teachers.

Some children show progress from counseling or structured therapy. Others may progress from talking with a specialist on how to manage ADHD and other learning disorders. I have found a program called The Total Transformation by James Lehman. I highly recommend this to parents.

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