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Helpful Hints to Help Kids with ADHD at Christmastime

Christmas cookies The closer we get to Christmas, the more excited most children will become. Parents of children who have ADHD need to be able to separate the myths about this disorder from the facts. There are certain things you can do to help your child cope with the holidays.

There are some myths about ADHD that your relatives may mistakingly think are facts. December is a month that typically involves lots of family gatherings. Parents of kids who have ADHD might want to be prepared to gently educate their relatives about their misconceptions about this disorder.

Studies show that there is no connection between sugar consumption and bad behavior. Some of these studies included a comparison between children who had ADHD, and children who did not. Both were given sugar.

There wasn’t much difference between the behaviors of the two groups. In other words, nothing inherently bad will happen if your child who has ADHD eats one or two Christmas cookies. Parents should be prepared to encounter some relatives who are unaware that “sugar causes hyperactivity” is nothing more than a myth.

Time off of school, and away from the schedule your child is used to, can feel stressful for kids who have ADHD. Your child might feel calmer if he or she is given a certain amount of control. Something simple, like allowing your child to place a special ornament on the Christmas tree, or letting him select which Christmas movie the family will watch tonight, can help.

There is a lot about the holiday season that can be hectic, and rushed. Parents need to keep in mind that children who have ADHD tend to have difficulty with transitioning from one activity to another. It is a good idea to give your child extra notifications about when, exactly, your family will rush out the door and travel to grandmother’s house.

In the morning, remind your child that you will be leaving home to visit a relative today. Point out what time it is, and what time you will be leaving. You may need to encourage your child to get dressed, and to get ready to go.

Do a countdown. State that you will be leaving in thirty minutes. Then, remind your child when there is fifteen minutes left to go. A five minute warning can be helpful. These little reminders can help your child to have an easier transition from one activity to another during the holidays.

Image by Micah Elizabeth Scott on Flickr

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About Jen Thorpe

I have a B.S. in Education and am a former teacher and day care worker. I started working as a freelance writer in 2010 and have written for many topics here at Families.com.