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It’s no secret that every child is special and unique in their own way, but sometimes that child may be neurodivergent and takes a different approach to support. If your grandchild was diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, you know they are brilliant and passionate, but they also need a different approach when it comes to certain things.
Does this make them any less? No – on the contrary! It just means that their brains are wired a certain way and respond to some things better than others.
I’ve done some research to uncover the best ways to support your grandchild with ADD/ADHD, including:
1. Create a routine
Children with ADD/ADHD thrive on routine, so try to stick with it as best you can – even if they just visit for the weekend! Schedules for activities, meals, and bedtime can provide security and predictability that helps your neurodivergent grandchild manage their symptoms better.
2. Give them ample warning/reminders on the remaining time
Word to the wise: Do NOT make your grandchild with ADHD stop what they are doing cold turkey, as it is a significant stressor that can result in a major meltdown. If it’s time to wrap up whatever they are doing, give them a few minutes notice so they can finish what they are working on before moving on to the next thing. As the grandma of a sweet boy with ADHD, I cannot tell you what a difference this made in our interactions and overall relationship.
3. Encourage lots of physical activity
While lots of outdoor time is a must for all kids, it benefits children with ADD/ADHD even more, as it gives them the release they need to clear their minds and work out some of their energy. Whether it’s a long walk, bike ride, or an organized sport, you, Grandma, can play as big (or small) a role in your grandchild’s physical activity as you want!
4. Foster their creativity
If you have a grandchild with ADHD/ADD, you know for a fact that they are incredibly creative and imaginative! Encourage their creativity by providing resources for art, music, drama, or whatever creative outlet your grandchild gravitates towards, as this keeps them engaged and focused and boosts their self-esteem by giving them a chance to excel in something they love.
5. Make more of the mundane into a fun activity
It’s a fact that children with ADD/ADHD can struggle with traditional methods of learning. What’s a Grandma to do? Try to incorporate games, puzzles, or interactive stories into your grandchild’s learning process, which will make learning more enjoyable and help improve their focus and concentration.
6. Advocate for them
One of the most impactful roles you can play as a grandma is being an advocate for your grandchild. Be prepared to stand up for your grandchild’s needs and rights at school or in other social settings. Examples of advocacy include explaining their condition to others, requesting necessary accommodations, or standing up against unfair treatment.
7. Participate in their treatment
If your grandchild receives treatment or special accommodations for their diagnosis, you can be an active participant, whether taking them to therapy sessions or reminding them to take their medication.
8. Teach relaxation methods
Grandparents teach their grandkids countless life lessons, and ways to relax are no exception! Whether deep breathing, yoga, or simple mindfulness exercises, these techniques can help your grandchild manage the stress and overwhelm that can sometimes come with ADD/ADHD.
9. Nix the sweets
This may be one of the most challenging parts of grandparenting a child with ADD but try to limit your grandchild’s sugar intake as much as possible. Sugar and certain dyes can overstimulate the brain, so try to find snacks that are limited in sugar and are not overly processed.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the best thing you can do for your grandchild with ADHD is to keep loving them the way only a Grandma can! I hope you picked up an idea or two when it comes to supporting your grandchild with ADHD/ADD. As always, my friend, let’s talk again soon!
