Time for a Break.....

When you have a child with ADHD that struggles daily in school.....breaks are a blessing! Today is R's last day of school for a week! We are so excited! He is lucky in that he gets a whole week off for Thanksgiving break. However, being out of school for so also means being out of our routine and off of our schedule.  This can be disastrous for a family dealing with ADHD.  Staying on a schedule when you want to sleep late is very difficult.  We have a lot of family that come in from out of town as well so we have many places to visit.  This also means an increase of stimulation! Here are some tips for surviving these times!



1. Be Flexible
Yes I understand how strange that sounds when I've just talked about structure and routine.  However, with the increase of stimulation and lack of a normal routine, meltdowns are likely to happen.  Try to be as understanding and tolerant of this as  you can.



2. Remain Calm!!
Try not to lose your cool! This will only upset your child (and you!!!!) all the more.  This is a difficult one for me.  I'm quick tempered. This is a personal struggle that I deal with on a daily basis. I find myself walking away a lot and deep breathing. I've learned that Mommy Time Outs are a very good thing.  Even if I have to go into the bathroom and lock the door for just a minute or two. 



3. Be sympathetic
Understand that your child cannot help being overwhelmed.  They cope in the best way they know how.



4. Make sure your child has some "down time"
Make sure your child has a "time out" as well.  Find some time where they can sit quietly for a little while and work a puzzle or read a book.  Do it together if you are able!



5. Have fun!!!
Enjoy the time you are able to spend with your child.  They aren't little for long!

XOXO,


One Southern Mama