| It can be extremely challenging for the entire family to | | | | on.However, do not give unlimited choices for each |
| raise a child with ADHD. But learning specific parenting | | | | action. For example, the choice of clothing should be |
| skills in relation to ADHD is highly important for the | | | | limited to two choice. The choices in food should be |
| health of the child as well as the relationship between | | | | which two vegetables out of four available.Keep in |
| child and parent.One thing that is really useful for | | | | mind that a parent's relationship with their child is |
| parents is to join a support group that is both | | | | essential in any family, but it is perhaps even more |
| educational and socially supportive. Listening to how | | | | important with ADHD children.For this relationship to |
| others are coping with ADHD is one way parents can | | | | work well, you need both time and a willingness to |
| learn how to interact with their children. If you do not | | | | listen and notice. You must make yourself aware of |
| have a local support group, join an online forum or | | | | the good behaviors not just the bad behaviors. Spend |
| support group.One very important thing a parent needs | | | | at least fifteen minutes to half an hour a day with your |
| to do is set clear goals and limits for themselves and | | | | child with no distractions. Ask the child about their day. |
| their children. This may be very difficult when you have | | | | Try to eat meals with them as often as possible. Turn |
| both an ADHD and a so-called normal child. After | | | | off all distractions at meal times --- no TV. Simple |
| these goals and limits are set, it is crucial to be as | | | | things like this are the most important in keeping good |
| consistent as possible.Give your child choices for what | | | | connections with all your child.Sharon Owen is editor |
| they can do. Do not tell them exactly what they will | | | | and publisher of Answers For Your Health. For more |
| eat, wear and do. The more choices they have, the | | | | information on ADHD see You want your health |
| more independent they will be as time goes | | | | questions answered in plain language not doctor speak. |