Treatments for ADHD vary for each child. Effective treatment plans improve functioning and reduce the challenging behaviors of ADHD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Consult with a child behaviorist, child psychologist, counselor, pediatrician or other ADHD expert for a treatment plan. NIMH says a plan should include a combination of medicine, psychotherapy and parent training. An educational plan appropriate for a child with ADHD is also helpful.
Behavior Therapy
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends behavior therapy for children with ADHD. A behaviorist can work with your child at your home or a therapist's office. He can also show you techniques to use each week. In behavior therapy, children learn ways to communicate better, control outbursts, improve life skills and reduce disruptive tendencies. Positive reinforcers, such as stickers or desired activities, can help your child work to monitor his own behavior.
Parenting Skills
To reduce problems with your ADHD child, learn to give your child boundaries, positive reinforcers and clear rules. These parenting skills often need the help of a trained professional. Ask your pediatrician or local ADHD support group for a listing of local parent skills classes. In parenting training, you may learn how to break big tasks down into smaller steps for your child or how to make difficult tasks reachable for your child. Classes can also help you use positive approaches to improve disruptive behavior. The stress of dealing with an ADHD child can be intense, and formal training in positive approaches can be beneficial. Also, join parent support groups with other ADHD parents.
Counseling
Family counseling may help a child with ADHD to identify reasons for disruptive behavior. Consult with your pediatrician for a child psychologist in your area. Children with ADHD often also struggle with anxiety and other behaviors that lead to tantrums or angry outbursts. A psychologist can help identify deeper problems causing your child to be disruptive. Finding the root cause of these behaviors can help the child's self-esteem and reduce stress for the whole family.
Organization
Children with ADHD thrive with predictable schedules and organization in everyday things. Put up a schedule for every activity, even playtime and bedtime. Keep school supplies and homework in the same place. Organize things they will need to be ready for school in a predictable manner.
Social Skills Classes
Children with ADHD often struggle to take turns, share toys, listen to others and be kind to peers. Social skills groups can help a child practice these skills with the help of a play therapist. They can also practice appropriate responses to social situations.
