Navigating the world of ADHD has been a rollercoaster for me over the past seven years. I often felt overwhelmed, isolated, and as if I were failing as a parent. I considered consulting our pediatrician or a therapist, but just when I thought I was making progress, my child’s behavior would spiral again. Yet through this challenging journey, I’ve learned some invaluable lessons as a mom of a child with ADHD.
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Listen to Your Instincts.
I always sensed something wasn’t quite right. It’s tough to articulate why, but my intuition told me to dig deeper. This inner voice propelled me to devour every resource that offered a smidgen of hope for better parenting. While friends said my son Leo was simply “being a boy,” I felt there was more to his behavior. -
Seek Support; You’re Not Alone.
After sifting through countless articles and books, I realized I needed professional help. My husband and I decided it was time for a behavioral counselor. Within two months, we had clarity, a strategy, and a supportive ally guiding our family. While friends and family were great, the counselor provided a unique perspective that shifted our family dynamics toward healthier patterns. -
Teacher Compatibility Matters.
Not all educators are equipped to handle children with ADHD. Some teachers have unfairly labeled Leo as the troublemaker, while others have communicated effectively and positively. Regardless of their approach, I always keep them in the loop about counseling developments and ask for feedback on Leo’s behavior, understanding they have many other students to consider. -
Counseling Isn’t Just for Kids.
There are days when I find myself losing my cool, reacting much like Leo does. Realizing I was modeling poor emotional control made me rethink my approach. I started applying the same techniques he was learning in therapy, like taking deep breaths (imagine smelling a chocolate cake and blowing out candles). Understanding ADHD as a biological condition helped too—it’s not just a behavioral issue; it’s part of Leo’s genetic makeup. -
Expectations Need Adjustment.
Before Leo’s diagnosis, I prided myself on being a strict parent with high standards. After learning about ADHD, I relaxed those expectations, feeling guilty for my earlier demands. However, this only made things worse. When I discussed this with the counselor, she confirmed that Leo actually thrived under a more accountable approach, alongside ample support. -
ADHD is Unique to Each Child.
ADHD manifests differently for everyone, similar to Autism. I never suspected Leo had it because I envisioned ADHD as hyperactivity personified. But symptoms vary widely, and understanding this helped me get a clearer picture of what Leo experiences. -
Not Everyone Will Get It.
ADHD has become a buzzword, with many people dismissing it as a parenting failure. As parents, we often grapple with self-doubt and criticism. It’s crucial to surround yourself with supportive friends who understand, rather than those who judge. The journey can be tough enough without added negativity from self-proclaimed experts.
As we continue on this path, I embrace the challenges ahead. Leo is a remarkable kid—his creativity, kindness, and humor light up my life. I feel fortunate to be his mom and to witness his extraordinary growth.
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Summary: Parenting a child with ADHD can be challenging, but trusting your instincts, seeking help, and understanding the unique nature of ADHD can make a significant difference. Each child is different, and surrounding yourself with supportive people can ease the journey.