“Sit still.” “Pay attention.” “Stop doing that.” These are some of the many phrases a child with ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, may hear throughout the day as they navigate school and home life. Due to the inattentiveness and lack of impulse control that ADHD causes, these children may hear nothing but corrections and complaints all day.
What’s often missing is constructive praise. The constant critiques on their behavior — which they often can’t fully control — can be very discouraging, and some may internalize these critiques and start to believe they are a “bad” kid. “A little recognition for a job well done means a lot to children with ADHD,” says Preeti Parikh, MD, Executive Medical Director of GoodRx and pediatrician at Mount Sinai Hospital.
Preeti Parikh, MD is the Executive Medical Director at GoodRx and served as the Chief Medical Officer of HealthiNation.
References
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2017). Behavior therapy for children with ADHD.
Smith, M. et al. (2023). ADHD parenting tips. HelpGuide.
U.S. Department of Education. (2006). Teaching children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: instructional strategies and practices.
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