Have you tried so many different methods to try and support your child but it seems like nothing is working? Don’t give up, you've come to the right place! First thing to know, parenting is hard! Really hard. And parenting a child who is neurodivergent with ADHD can be even harder. You are not alone. ADHD is a whole family issue: it impacts the parent/child relationship, relationships with siblings and friends, and lastly, affects success in school inside and outside the classroom.
According to ADHD Expert, Dr. Russell Barkley, most kids with ADHD have a 30% lag in the development of their brain's prefrontal cortex. This is the command center where executive functions are stored. Executive functions are the skills one needs to complete a task. This includes preparing for the task and reflecting on how the task went when it’s completed, (ie. task initiation, organization, time management, self-regulation, etc.). These skills are not fully developed until the end of the brain's maturity cycle around age 25.
​​Weaknesses to these executive functioning skills may show up as problems following directions, remembering a sequence of activities, problem-solving, sustaining focus for the duration of a task, organizing, transitioning from one task or location to another, following through with boring or difficult tasks, and being flexible with unexpected changes. Kids with ADHD often have slow processing speed leading to difficulty with social skills, self-advocacy, and self-regulation. This is difficult information to absorb as a parent. I will help you view this with a new lens!
A Coach will be able to support you in:
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Understanding your or your child’s ADHD diagnosis and any co-occurring diagnoses
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Knowing how to be a proactive yet patient accountability buddy for their child. Your kids will want you to check in!
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Use appropriate and effective communication to partner in problem-solving with your children
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Maintaining routine and structure in your household
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Determining your kid's strengths, passions, values, and what makes them tick
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Supporting your kids in advocating for themselves
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Improving your children’s cognitive flexibility when discussing transitions or change
Collaboration between parents and children requires both parties to be able to see the other's perspective and come to a mutually agreeable conclusion. It is not "letting your child get away with" (fill in the blank) poor grades, dangerous behavior, neglecting their household duties, etc. It involves working together to find solutions to your toughest problems. Your child is developing self-esteem while learning to problem-solve. Parent and/or Family Coaching will give you the confidence and education to positively support your child so your family can thrive.