To provide children a sense of normalcy, fostering a positive and nurturing home environment must be a top priority. Here are 5 ways to keep stress down if you are a parent to a child that struggles with ADHD.
- Acknowledge the new reality. While maintaining normalcy, rules, and structure are essential for children with ADHD to thrive, embrace the fact that there is a new normal, and it might be completely different from what you expected it to be. Set an example for your children and focus on being prepared as much as possible, and when not – calm under pressure.
- Identify the simple ways you can create routines at home. It could be establishing bedtime rituals, creating easy-to-prepare meal plans, or posting daily schedules on a board that’s visible to everyone. These small things go a long way in reducing stress within the home. Children need structure, and these routines can help them set boundaries and know what to expect.
- Focus on what you can control. Current learning arrangements and state restrictions are beyond your control. Instead of feeling helpless, channel your energy into what you can control. These items might be your commitment to safety guidelines and hygiene recommendations, how you set boundaries (think about what you’re saying “no” to when you say “yes” to doing something) and create your personal space, and being aware of your reaction to stressful situations.
Anxiety is contagious. Children quickly absorb the energy their parents give off. Instead of being fixated on what should be, accept what is. This sends a message to children that we can rise and overcome whatever challenges come our way.
- Take care of yourself. It’s true: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Parenting will be stressful and difficult if you don’t prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Aim for at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, take slow, deep breaths, eat nourishing meals, stay hydrated, get enough sleep (if you can), work on a passion project, and be consistent with your annual physical check-ups. Your children will know if you’re coming from a place of love and light or if you are drained, even if you don’t say it.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Contrary to popular belief, asking for help is a sign of strength. Let other family members know how they can pitch in. Get in touch with your child’s school; let them know what your situation is at home and see if accommodations can be made for your child.
Located in Brentwood, Currey Ingram Academy empowers students with learning differences such as ADHD and dyslexia to reach their full potential. The private boarding school understands that all children learn differently; their teachers use different evidence-based instructional practices and present material through individualized, structured, and multisensory approaches (visual, auditory, and kinesthetic) to best meet the instructional and learning needs of every student. Knowing that your children are in an environment where they are given the tools and the support to thrive and grow will help ease whatever stress you might be feeling right now.
Know that you are not the only one feeling this way right now. The uncertainty of it all can be overwhelming. It’s always good to be kind: to yourselves as parents, to other parents in the community, and to your children. We are all navigating a time unlike any other; kindness and understanding will make a huge difference and go a long way.
A private school in Brentwood, Currey Ingram Academy supports and empowers students with learning differences to achieve their fullest potential – academically and socially – within an environment that fosters holistic student development. Get in touch by calling (615) 507-3173.
