It is the middle of the school year; this is an opportune time to address both academic and social difficulties your child with ADHD may be having in school. Bear in mind that factors such as low self-esteem and lack of confidence can make it difficult for a child with ADHD to make and keep friends.Your child is likely to do better in school if he or she is able to get along with fellow classmates and is involved in social activities. A great many children with ADHD have a poor self-image because they are often scolded, mislabeled, and rejected by peers for their behavior. Children with ADHD may lack the ability to interpret social cues; as a result, their behavior is often inappropriate.
Besides organizational and learning techniques, you can teach your child necessary social skills. Children with ADHD are usually highly imaginative, bright, and energetic. Foster these positive qualities in your child by showing appreciation for his or her efforts and courage. Reinforce the value of making mistakes, creative problem-solving, and setting and striving for manageable goals. Describe childhood memories of when you felt anxious, embarrassed, or disappointed, and explain how to turn a bad experience into a positive one. Discuss different approaches to solving homework problems and offer positive feedback. Avoid using judgmental language and scolding your child in public. Once a child has learned these valuable lessons, he or she can benefit from taking part in group activities and building lasting friendships.
