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Home › Articles › Special Needs › ADHD

ADHD

Is Ritalin the Only Way?

By Julia Rosien

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If you consult a holistic practitioner or naturopath, you may be told to eliminate white flour, processed foods or certain dyes to isolate a food allergy. Serious food allergies can make a child look or behave hyperactive, but only a small number of children have food and dye allergies, Matlen says. "These children did not truly have ADHD to begin with. I wouldn't recommend any medication unless a doctor suggested it."

Consistency of Expectations
Decide what you want to focus on so the whole day isn't a battle, says Dana Currie, parent of a child with ADHD in Kitchener, Ontario. If grades slip or peer issues develop, ignore less important things like cleaning a bedroom. Post-it notes, schedules taped on the refrigerator and constant communication can help you and your child to cope.

"Let him know you value his efforts as well as his accomplishments," Currie says. "Set out clothes the night before, eat at the same time each day and make bedtime routine the same every night. Prepare him for transitions by telling him exactly what happens next."

Physically turn your child or tap him on the shoulder to ensure he hears your instructions. "When things occasionally spin out of control -- and they will -- maintain a neutral demeanor, remembering that making you angry is not his goal," Currie says.

A child with ADHD adores praise, but may not be able to accept it, Schultz says. "Because it means that you can criticize her as well. Ask for a self-evaluation and then, if she's right, agree with her," he says.

Enjoy your child's wonderful talents and imagination, and focus on the positive aspects of his or her life. The disorder is only one part of your child's life and, as most professionals agree, not the most important part.


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