MHM Magazine

18 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | Issu3 2 | 2022 MHM things for a lengthy period. - For children under the age of 10, have a break every 12 minutes and for children older let them have a break every 20 minutes. A timer or clock is helpful in keeping to a set time. • Children with ADHD constantly receive negative feedback from those around them. It’s important to remind parents to understand what’s manageable for their child and to recognise and acknowledge effort rather than praise them for things done correctly. Parents need to be encouraged to focus on the child’s strengths and positive attributes. • Recommend that parents reward good behaviour and effort as much as possible by verbal praise, touch (a hug) or something that is meaningful for the child, such as spending time with them or doing fun activities that they enjoy, rather than material gifts. • Parents should try keep rewards and discipline consistent because children with ADHD thrive on predictability. • Some children like to study while standing or walking around. The parent should investigate ways to determine what works best for their child and work with the ways that their child feel most comfortable. • Children with ADHD are often visual learners, and it might be useful if they have access to sticky notes, highlighters, and coloured pencils to help stimulate learning. • Recommend a study method course to determine the child’s learning style. Every child is different, and the parent should, as far as possible, adapt to the specific needs of the child. • A child with ADHD can get overwhelmed if they feel there is too much to do. Advise parents to assist in breaking down their child’s assignments into smaller, manageable tasks and encourage their child to work on one section at a time. • Highlight the importance of keeping communication channels open between the parents and teachers to ensure that the child is being supported optimally both at home and at school. References available upon request