Guidance

[Ccyn2025]

can anyone talk to me about their experience with their toddler I have a 6 year old whom I suspect has ADHD and I just need to hear from other parents and things I can do as a mother to be better

[Redpandamom]

Hi Ccyn!

I had my 4 year old daughter evaluated by a psychologist, because she is extremely hyperactive and inattentive. I know about ADHD because it runs in my family. And it turns out I was right, she was officially diagnosed earlier this month. If you’re here, you might have already read this (link below), but I wanted to share because I came across this and it helped me, mostly bullet point #1, and I don’t know if your situation is similar, but I found that I was blaming myself for her behavior, thinking I could have done something differently or I’m not parenting her the right way, or something I did caused her behavior. But it’s important to recognize that if your child does have ADHD, that it’s a neurological disorder and is not caused by poor parenting.

chadd.org/for-parents/overv...

something I learned from my child’s psychologist was “planned ignoring”, where you ignore the irritating or unfavorable behaviors (safety concerns should always be addressed), and really pour into acknowledging even the smallest wins like when they are able to focus on a task or complete something that you asked them to do. I noticed my child was having some self-esteem issues related to her behavior, and this trick has been working wonders. Again, I don’t know your current situation, but I would start with getting your child evaluated, it can really help to determine next steps once you truly know what is going on.

I’m new to this platform/group and looking for other parents in similar situations for support and advice, and always open to being a soundboard or being support to others as well!

[Ccyn2025 in reply to Redpandamom]

Thank you for your help I will start with an appointment with his pediatrician I think I’ve been scared that I am right about my suspicions with him but I’m also afraid I’m wrong and this is something else but I will take the steps I appreciate this

[Redpandamom in reply to Ccyn2025]

It can be scary but luckily there are tons of resources and options available to help, no matter which way it goes, pediatrician is a great first step!

[Lkh144]

Get your child evaluated. My son was diagnosed with hyperactivity at 4 and then ADHD at 5. Every day was a struggle. He started medication and is now having a generally successful year in kindergarten. He also sees a therapist bi-weekly to talk about emotions.

[Ccyn2025 in reply to Lkh144]

Thank you so much this gives me hope

[Redpandamom in reply to Lkh144]

glad your kiddo is doing better!

[MyWanderfulBoy]

Hi! I’ve come to also say that getting the evaluation will be very beneficial. My son’s pediatrician said he was very hyperactive when he was 4 year old. His behavior at home was both hyperactive and impulsive from about 2.5 onwards - prior to that he was just a runner. Once he started preschool, it was all noticed there as well huge emotional outbursts and we got him evaluated and he was diagnosed with ADHD hyperactive/impulsive type. Start with step one - get her evaluated. If you get a diagnosis, you can take the next steps as they’ll be clearer. Wishing you all the best!

[Ccyn2025 in reply to MyWanderfulBoy]

Step by step sounds good thank you I’ve received some encouraging words here

[Coffeequeen4]

This is a very exhausting journey for sure. My son was diagnosed with ADHD when he was nine and we are still working on things almost two years later. Give yourself lots of breaks and make sure you take time for yourself. As amazing as our kids are, ADHD and the emotional ups and downs can leave you tired and questioning if you are doing everything you can. Ask lots of questions of your doctor and his teacher and rememeber that the hard parts will ebb and flow and there will be plenty of joyful times with your little one. We are just starting the process of behavioral therapy so I can alwayswt you know how that goes! Hope this gives you some help and encouragement.

[Mamamichl]

structure/routines rather than schedule. Positive reinforcements rather than punishments. Communication and problem solving, but also have them repeat what you said. Have unlimited patience and be ready to repeat yourself many times.