Co Author: Laura Bowler
The early years of a child’s life are crucial for their cognitive, emotional, and social development. For children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), these formative years present unique challenges and opportunities.
As a parent, guardian, or caregiver, understanding how to effectively support a child with ADHD during their early years can make a significant difference in their overall well-being and future success.
- Educating Yourself
- Creating a Structured Environment
- Set Realistic Expectations
- Encourage Physical Activity
- Practice Positive Reinforcement
- Create a Calming Space
- Asking for Help
- Fostering Social Skills
The first step in effectively supporting a child with ADHD is to educate yourself about the disorder. Understand the symptoms, characteristics, and potential challenges associated with ADHD. By having a clear grasp of what your child is experiencing, you can approach their needs with empathy and informed decision-making.
Children with ADHD often thrive in structured environments. Establish routines for daily activities such as waking up, meals, playtime, and bedtime. Consistency provides a sense of predictability that can help a child manage their impulsivity and hyperactivity more effectively. At Cherubs Nurseries, we can help with routine planning, please get in touch with your child’s key person.
Clearly communicate expectations to your child, using simple and concise language. Break tasks into manageable steps and provide visual cues when possible. Keep in mind that your child might struggle with focusing for extended periods, so setting realistic goals and celebrating small achievements can boost their self-esteem.
Physical activity can be a powerful outlet for a child’s excess energy and impulsiveness. Engage in regular outdoor play and physical activities to help your child channel their energy in a positive way. Sports, swimming, dancing, or even yoga can be enjoyable ways for them to burn off energy and improve focus.
Positive reinforcement can work wonders for children with ADHD. Acknowledge and reward their good behaviour and efforts. This could be as simple as offering verbal praise, stickers, or a special activity they enjoy. By highlighting their successes, you boost their confidence and motivation to continue working on their challenges.
Breaking down tasks they find hard to small steps, a small step is a big step to a child with ADHD. Rewarding the simplest of tasks will encourage the children to want to do it again next time, and not give up. Speak to your nursery SENCo if you are struggling with how to break a task down.
For example, toileting is a big step, if your child walks into the bathroom when they normally refuse, that is a big step to them! Next time they might just sit on the toilet but even if they don’t and they look at the toilet reward that too!
Visual routine is a brilliant resource for your child as if they are unsure they can see what is going to happen next and hopefully bring down the anxiety of not knowing what is next. We are more than happy to help make these routines with you please speak to your child’s key person or nursery SENCo. Don’t forget the smallest of steps is a huge step.
Designate a quiet, calming space where your child can retreat when they feel overwhelmed or overstimulated. Fill this space with sensory-friendly items like soft pillows, calming music, and fidget toys. Encourage them to use this space as a tool for self-regulation.
Sensory bottles are brilliant for calming little ones, as well as how fun they can be to make with your child. All you need is an empty bottle, water and glitter. You can add anything you would like to the bottles and just be sure to tighten the bottle after and check these before every use.
Speak to your child’s key person if you have questions about their progression. Our observations alongside our early years framework ensures we monitor your child’s development at all stages. Consulting with healthcare professionals, such as paediatricians and child psychologists, can provide valuable insights and strategies tailored to your child’s specific needs. They can help you develop an individualised plan that includes therapies and behavioural intervention
Help your child build positive social skills by arranging playdates or group activities. Teach them how to take turns, share, and communicate effectively with their peers. Guiding them through social interactions can contribute to their emotional growth and overall well-being.
Resources
For more information, you might find the below links useful…
A link for useful support groups – http://www (nottinghamshire.gov.uk)
This covers a broad area of Nottinghamshire and is a great way of meeting other parents who have had similar experiences and helps you feel like you’re not alone.
Sensory bottle ideas – Sensory bottles for babies, toddlers and preschoolers – Messy Little Monster
We also recommend calming music, sensory light soothing and following a sleep routine. Some useful information on sleep – Sleep_factsheet.docx (live.com)
