Parenting Article about ADHD

Let's Accentuate the Positive Characteristics of Children with ADHD for a Change!
Just to Let you Know some Famous people have had ADHD.

Instead of focusing on the problems correlated with having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, let's take a break from this pattern of thinking and look at the positive qualities that co-exist with it. Children with ADHD can be curious, bright, energetic, creative, imaginative, funny, athletic, go-getters, and have a zest for life that our past U.S. President, Teddy Roosevelt, would be envious of. I believe this because as a former nanny I've dealt with children with ADHD. Plus, I have a brother and a father who were both hyperactive as children. In fact, my father who's in his eighties is still on the go and as smart as a whip. Believe it or not, he was still running in races into his early eighties. I don't know if he won many races as a child, but he sure has won a lot in his golden years. He has a string of first place medals for the 70+ age category and enough vim and vigor which people half his age wish they could have. But as for your child, his or her senior years are a long way off. The point is, there are positive attributes that go along with the challenges of having ADHD.

These positive aspects can be evident now and then can continue into your child's adult life. Is he or she creative? This creativity can show up in their present drawings or dance, and later in life when they choose an occupation. Maybe they'll be a top-notch choreographer or graphic artist. If your child has impulsive behavior and difficulty sitting still, stop and think how you can re-channel this energy. Find constructive outlets. Does your child like to run? Dance? Play tennis? Find out and get them involved. Going with this train of thought if your child has an endless amount of curiosity, discover what really fascinates them. Do they like bugs? Building model planes? Then nurture it, safely. You might have a budding entomologist or inventor in your home. Is your child extremely imaginative? Get them some large paper and paints and let them go at it, or give them a pen and have them jot down stories. Does your child have a flare for comedy or dramatics? Do they crave attention? Put them in acting classes. Who knows maybe when they grow up they'll be a first rate comic, actor, or trial attorney. (I kid you not. I knew someone who as a child was very hyperactive and argumentative. He also liked to be the center of attention. He found his calling. Being a trial lawyer.)

Last remarks: If you're the parent of a child with ADHD who consistently complains to them about their behavior this can be counter productive. If you tell them over and over that their behavior is obnoxious or annoying, what do you expect it to be? Try substituting positive words for the negative ones. Instead of saying, "Stop being hyper and annoying," say, "Be calm. Be polite." Children will grow into how you see them. Also, try these things: Praise your child when you see them working on their frustration, anger or manners. Look at what they have to offer the world. Are they kind? Considerate? Enthusiastic? How about every once in awhile both you and your child step outside the ADHD box and look inside it. I bet you'll both be surprised how many pleasant revelations there are if you really look.