Dealing With Boys Who Have ADHD

This is a topic that is near and dear to me. I have the pleasure of knowing a wonderful six year boy who has been diagnosed with ADHD. It is difficult to watch him struggle from afar so I decided to share some knowledge as well as hope to you the reader.

Due to a variety of cultural forces over the past few decades, many women have had to take on greater responsibility in the raising of their children; sometimes even assuming the role of both mother and father. This model is not ideal for anyone — it asks too much of mothers, diminishes the influence of a loving father, and deprives the child of a role model they sorely need. It is especially not best for boys with attention deficit disorder (ADD ADHD). Boys with ADHD need their dads.

Dads must understand what their child is going through and be patient and supportive. They must understand that their child may not learn as fast as others, however the child can learn through different methods of teaching. It is imperative that the son feels like dad understands and accepts him. If he doesn't feel accepted from dad how can he totally accept himself? Your son needs your approval much as you may have needed your father's approval when you were growing up. Give him what you had or didn't for that matter.

Boys are more likely to have ADHD than girls. Many need medication to help them cope and focus. Parents must consistently shower that child with positive affirmations reassuring him that he can Do It. Whatever that "IT" is he can do it with a little hard work and dedication. Just hearing that from his parents, especially his dad makes a world of difference.
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The need for father's approval is even more critical when the son with ADHD has poor motor skills. This son might be clumsy and have poor eye-hand coordination. He might not do well in the usual team sports, like baseball, basketball, or soccer. If a boy isn't successful in traditional sports, forming relationships with boys or feeling good about being a boy is hard. They often become loners and have difficulty making friends.
Girls don't necessarily have to share physical activities to bond with other girls — they can make friends and interact through talking. Male bonding does not include talking. Have you ever seen two boys sit and discuss their day? Male bonding is grunting, wrestling, hitting, and playing sports. Boys with ADHD need activities that help them build confidence in their bodies and are healthy outlets for their high energy.

Ask your son how you can help him focus and stay on course. Participate in activities with him. Show him how patient and understanding you are about his condition which in turn will help him reach his goals. I want to stress that I am not saying moms are not important in this process; however an active and understanding dad can make the process of dealing with ADHD smoother for the son and mother. Be encouraged my friends.

7 Facts that Will Help You With Your Child

1. Accept the fact that your child—like all children—is imperfect.

2. Don't believe all the "bad news" about your child. (you know your child better than anyone)

3. Don't overestimate the importance of medication.

4. Make sure you know the difference between discipline and punishment.

5. Never punish a child for behavior that he is unable to control.

6. Pay more attention to your child's positive behavior.

7. Learn to anticipate potentially explosive situations.