Bringing up a child can be at times overwhelming and challenging. parent coaching helps parents to improve their parenting and communication with their children. It is designed to help parents develop the skills and coping mechanisms necessary to manage their child’s behavior and development, which in turn provides a healthier more controlled home environment.
Out therapists can help you understand your child’s behavior and how to interact with your child accordingly. This advice is aimed not only at shaping your child’s behavior but also at helping him feel good about himself in the process. Many times a child with ADHD or Aspergers can be very challenging and require a higher level of parenting than a neurotypical child.
Some typical advice given to parents.
Maintain routines.
All children need structure to feel safe and in control; those with ADHD are no exception. They do best when they know what’s coming, so stick to a schedule and follow consistent routines each day for things like getting ready for school, having an after-school snack, doing homework, having dinner, and going to bed.
Make expectations and consequences clear and consistent.
Because a child with ADHD is less capable of managing his own behavior and controlling his impulses, he needs you to clearly establish what is acceptable and what isn’t — and to follow through when he oversteps those limits. Reward systems like the ones described above are an excellent way to communicate consistent expectations and consequences.
Stay positive.
Use positive statements to motivate your child and preserve his self-esteem. For instance, instead of saying, “Stop throwing a tantrum,” say “When you calm your body, we can talk about what you want.”
Stay calm.
ADHD kids are highly tuned in to their parents‘ nonverbal cues such as body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. The more stressed out you act, the more your child will mirror your stress. Keeping your own mood in check helps your child feel like he can do the same.
Help your child find ways to excel.
Some kids with ADHD may feel like they aren’t good at anything and can’t seem to please anyone. Your role is to encourage your child in areas where he demonstrates a special ability, whether it’s in painting, a sport, or storytelling. Assuring a child he’s good at something makes him feel valuable.
Sessions can involve role-playing, psychoeducation, and information about their child’s condition. Therapists can work with you in person or on Skype. Parents are encouraged to continuously practice the skills they learned at home. By doing this, parents will learn how to correctly identify and respond to their child problems. Consequently, children’s behavior will improve.