By Dr. Emil Tompkins, a Tucson Chiropractor with a passion for family health and wellness.
Michael Phelps set records at this years Olympics. While he is a hero to many Americans, he’s a true hero to those dealing with ADHD. Here’s some info from the gold medal mom. Tips on how to raise a child with ADHD.
By: Dr Emil Tompkins, a Chiropractor in Tucson, AZ with a passion for helping kids stay healthy.
Create an Environment for Learning
Teachers play an integral role in the development and performance of their students. Reach out to teachers before the new school year to discuss how to work together to create an optimal classroom environment. Additionally, parents can provide insight into areas in which their child excels, or skills that could be improved with extra attention.
Questions you may want to ask teachers include:
• Is there a place in the classroom where my child can sit to minimize distractions?
• Can we set up a system for frequent communication and feedback on my child’s performance outside of the usual report cards and parent-teacher conferences?
• How can we get important notes and long-term assignment sheets sent to us directly?
• Can my child have a textbook in which he/she can highlight important facts and information directly in the book?
• Do you recommend a specific assignment book for your class?
Teachers have a wonderful opportunity to observe and provide feedback on the behavior and progress of your child, so it’s important to stay in regular contact with them. Make sure to set up regular meetings or establish another means of communication for updates and feedback, such as e-mail or a notebook that can go back and forth from home to school.
Encourage Strong Social Relationships
As you may already know, making friends can be difficult even without the challenges that come with ADHD. Parents can usually see the impact ADHD has on their child’s academic development, but the condition can also affect a child’s ability to make and maintain strong social relationships.
Friendships are essential in establishing and building confidence, so do not overlook the importance of encouraging your children with ADHD to socialize with children who have similar interests.
There are many ways to help children with ADHD foster new and old friendships. Be creative – find opportunities for social interaction at school and beyond. Many children with ADHD play better with younger children; while some exhibit more appropriate behavior when playing with older children who can be role models.
We found that Michael excelled when he was challenged in an athletic setting. Explore what may be offered in volunteer organizations, community clubs or sports programs. If parents are able to be part of these activities, even better; it provides you with an opportunity for observing your child’s behavior and progress.
via Debbie Phelps’ ADHD Tips For Parents « Dr Hallowell
Dr. Emil Tompkins is a Chiropractor who’s been taking care of kids and adults with ADHD for over 8 years. He uses a multifaceted approach to achieving learning and emotional goals. Call Dr. Tompkins at 520.572.2596 today to schedule a consultation for your child.
See original here: Debbie Phelps’ ADHD Tips For Parents