Having a child with ADHD can present new challenges every day, and treating it can be difficult. Fortunately, as more research becomes available, parents have more options than ever before to use for assisting their child to become a high-functioning and happy adult. Here are three ways that you can help your child with ADHD navigate the road that lays ahead of them.
Get the Right Medication
One of the first lines of defense for children dealing with ADHD is to prescribe medicine to help to alleviate the primary symptoms of hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and impulsivity that often accompany this condition. While medication can help children to improve their concentration and focus, it is not a miracle cure-all for ADHD. It is also important to understand that once the child stops taking the medication, the symptoms will likely revert to their normal state. The most common type of medication used to control ADHD symptoms are stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexedrine. Your child’s physician can go over all of the side effects and safety issues that are most commonly associated with the use of stimulants.
Go to the Chiropractor
In addition to a medication protocol, proper chiropractic care can also aid in the management of ADHD. Various studies have shown that chiropractic treatment helps improve attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Spinal manipulation can positively affect the brain and help improve the cognitive process of attention. Trained professionals welcome the opportunity to work with your child to help them to manage their ADHD.
Create Structure
It is well known that children with ADHD thrive in a structured environment. As a parent, you can make their days and nights easier by providing established rituals that serve as a guiding framework for meals, schools, playtime, and homework. In addition, you need to establish firm rules so that the child knows what is expected from them at all times. While the rules need to be structured, you should also allow for some flexibility so that your child can adapt to different situations in a way that does not restrict their personal freedom.
In addition to these three practical tips, the most important thing for you to do as a parent of a child with ADHD is to simply love and encourage them through all of their challenges. Modifying your own behavior to manage your child will yield the most meaningful results.