How to Discipline a Child With ADHD

Discipline can be a challenge with any child. A child with ADHD is often excitable and a situation can get out of control quickly. It is important that you avoid making excuses for the child's behavior and hold the child to a certain level of self-control and discipline. These are tools that you child will carry with him/her throughout life and will be beneficial in adulthood. It is important to understand that the method of discipline should be altered to meet the child's abilities and to understand that what works for one child may not work for another. Read on to learn how to discipline a child with ADHD.

Things You'll Need

  • Patience
  • Positive attitude
  • The ability to hold your child responsible for his/her actions

Instructions

    • 1

      The single most important rule for disciplining any child is to be consistent in both the rules and the punishment. It confuses a child if he/she is allowed to do something one day, but gets into trouble for doing it on another day. You should set rules that are within your child's ability to follow and hold your child responsible for following them.

    • 2

      It is very important for a child with ADHD to have a clear routine--and to keep this routine daily. You should follow a consistent routing for waking, eating, doing chores, studying, watching television, playing and going to bed. You should be flexible enough with the routine to allow for disruptions, but keep to the routine as closely as possible.

    • 3

      If a task is new or difficult, you should demonstrate the task to your child while giving clear, precise instructions. Be patient and repeat the demonstration until your child clearly understands what is expected.

    • 4

      Another very important thing is to do one thing at a time. If you tell a child with ADHD to "clean your room", he or she may become frustrated because he or she has no direction and can become confused when he or she sees more than one task that needs to be completed. Instead, have your child do one step at a time--pick up the blocks, put away the books or other chores.

    • 5

      Learn to read the warning signals that come before an explosion. When you see the signs, quietly distract him or her and turn the scene into a positive experience. Allow your child to feel free to discuss his or her feelings with you honestly and openly.

    • 6

      Give responsibility that matches capabilities. Always praise efforts and attempts to meet these responsibilities. Your child should learn to be responsible for their actions. Keep in mind that ADHD is a manageable condition.

    • 7

      When you need to discipline your child, keep your voice calm and quiet. Anger is a natural feeling--if you show your child that it can be controlled, he or she will follow your example.

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