Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder which occurs in children below 18 years of age, and can be diagnosed as early as 6 years of age. Children with ADHD generally display symptoms such as hyperactivity, the inability to sustain focused attention, and impulsiveness.

For parents of children with ADHD, raising a child with special needs can be rather challenging, but here are some ways that could help parents make the growing up journey a fruitful and fulfilling one:

• Learning more about ADHD will provide helpful insights to understand our children and to better parent them. If possible, join a support group to link up with parents in a similar situation.
• Building and maintaining a relationship of trust and constant communication with our children — with loads of patience, a positive attitude and a sense of humor.
• Establishing and defining schedules and routines, with clear rules and expectations.
• Noticing and reinforcing positive behaviours through encouragement, such as appreciating their effort in their schoolwork or recognising their contribution to household chores.
• Engaging and spending quality time with them by asking them about their day, staying close to them when they’re engaged in an activity, etc. Showering them with lots of attention and affection will also let them feel valued and loved.

For more relevant resources on ADHD, do check out the Society For The Promotion of ADHD Research And Knowledge (SPARK).