It’s getting close to that time of year when the kids get out of school for the holiday break. Most kids have 10 days to 2 weeks off; for at least one of my kids, it’s a month.
This time of year can be hard for any parent. The holiday season is filled with social and school activities plus there’s the added stress of getting ready for them.
Parents are super busy and the kids are too, until they get out of school. By then they’re super hyped about the holidays and the time off school, and maybe just a little sugar buzzed too.
ADD kids without the structure that the school day provides can easily get out of hand. Add in all the extra things that the holidays can bring and it can be too much too fast.
First it’s important for you as a parent to realize that. Building in some structure, quiet time, and providing a good healthy diet will all help.
Also keep in mind that social activities can often be overwhelming for kids with ADHD. Even a trip to the mall can be too much.
Of course this doesn’t mean that you should avoid the mall (although I do at this time of year) or social events.
Instead, plan shopping trips when the mall is less busy. And if your child has an iPod or something similar, let them wear it if they want. It may help them be less overwhelmed.
In social situations, try to keep it on the short side if you can. Otherwise, prepare in advance by making sure they are well rested and fed.
Perhaps you can work with your hostess to arrange a way for your child to go someplace quiet if needed. Also remember to keep an eye on them for over the top behavior. You can’t always rely on them to know that they are behaving inappropriately.
Finally, be sure to build in some family time. One of our favorite things to do was to cut our own Christmas tree. It was pretty much a day long activity that we shared with my brother in law and his family.
All the time spent outdoors looking for just the right tree let them work off some energy and was good for them too. Sledding, skating and other outdoor activities are good too.
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