Focus can be hard enough for those without Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Children especially naturally gravitate towards moving around from interest to interest. However, for kids who battle ADHD in addition to the child-like wonder for the world, focus becomes as troublesome as a breeze blowing a leaf around.
In order to calm the winded dance, these tips can help your child focus.
Medication
The obvious start may not be everyone’s path. Using medication to help your kid with ADHD may be a viable option. You will need to see a professional for a prescription and adjusting of the medication may also be necessary. So, find someone you trust and can have open communication with to find the correct dosage for your child.
Active-Learning
While this may seem straightforward, the importance of having the child with ADHD actively engaged in any task will help tremendously. Keeping your child focused means they remain interested in whatever they are doing. If that means homework, then you need to ensure distractions and daydreaming stay at bay. This step could take a little trial and error, but engagement is vital.
Self-Regulation/Self-Esteem
Teaching your child how to regulate themselves and monitor how they behave will be a great asset now and in the future. Increasing their self-esteem will also be beneficial as they will likely notice any difference and having that boost of confidence in times of need are not only good for any child, but especially with those dealing with any disorder as well. These tools better equip them to deal with their ADHD and may also allow them to focus more.
Outdoor Time/Games to Increase Attention
Using both time outdoors to release some pent-up energy and games that aid in boosting attention create an amazing resource to have up your sleeve for your child. On those really hard to focus days, a little burst outside can be enough to get their mind back on track. And playing games to boost attention will do nothing short of adding to your child’s ability to recall and replicate when they need to focus on a duty like homework.
These suggestions can be used on your own or in tandem with therapy to help you handle the breeze blowing those leaves around in your ADHD kid. Slow the gusts, add strategies they can pull out in times of need, and guide them through with the support your child needs. We at Thrive Counseling are here if you need an extra hand.