How to Help my child with ADHD calm down
If you’re a parent of a child with ADHD and you find yourself Googling things like “how to help my child with ADHD calm down,” “helping kids with ADHD with big emotions,” or “what to do when my child is overwhelmed?” know that you’re not alone.
Many parents wonder what they can do to support their child’s emotional dysregulation. Children’s emotions are often impacted by their parents regulation and the environment that they’re in. Let’s take a deeper look at what parents can do.
Reducing adhd dysregulation with parental c0-regulation
Take a deep breath before engaging with your child so you are responding to them, not reacting to them.
Remember that it’s not personal. Your child’s dysregulation is directed at you because you are their safe space, not because they are mad at you.
Validate your child’s emotions. This doesn’t mean you’re approving of the behavior, but acknowledging what they feel.
“It is really disappointing when we don’t get to do what we want”
If you’re really overwhelmed and have a spouse or a parenting partner, tag them in for a little bit.
Speak softly and don’t speak too much. When your children are dysregulated they can’t take in your words.
cREATING A CALMING ENVIRONMENT
Have less stuff around. Children with ADHD are easily overwhelmed with their environment.
Have bedrooms or areas that are screen free. Screen time is often a cause of dysregulation so having an environment free of the temptation can support regulation.
Consider how stimulating the area is. White noise or calming nature sounds can be less distracting than a radio or tv in the background.
Have a space to calm down in. Offer things like weighted blankets, soft pillows, books, and fidget toys where children can go between hard transitions.
Think coming home from school, or after ending screen time and before starting homework.
