In this episode of "Raising Confident Kids with SEN." I was thrilled to have Dr. Amy Moore, a cognitive psychologist and TEDx speaker, share her insights on supporting and nurturing children with ADHD. As a professional, ADHD mum and a parent of a child with ADHD, Dr. Amy provides a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies focusing on the five pillars essential for understanding and assisting kids with this condition.

The significance of sleep

The first pillar that Dr. Amy highlights is the critical role of sleep in managing ADHD. Children with this condition often demonstrate delayed circadian rhythms, necessitating at least 9 to 10 hours of restful slumber. To achieve this, Dr. Amy prescribes a no-electronics policy and limited active play before bedtime. Creating a serene and dim sleep space, possibly with the aid of weighted blankets, can foster a conducive environment for relaxation.

Chronic stress and cognitive function

Dr. Amy delves into the pernicious cycle of chronic stress and its detrimental impact on cognitive functions. Stress over activates the nervous system, which impedes the ability to think and learn. By addressing stress, children with ADHD can significantly improve their cognitive performance. Parents are encouraged to act calmly and avoid shouting to preserve a household that promotes learning and development.

Nutrition's role in neural communication

It's no secret that what we consume affects our brain's health, and Dr. Amy underscores the importance of good nutrition in ADHD management. With the '90-10' rule, she advocates a diet that minimises inflammation-inducing substances like sugar and gluten, which can hinder neuronal communication. Ensuring a wholesome diet is integral to supporting the cognitive development of children with ADHD.

Understanding ADHD beyond attention deficit

While attention deficit is the hallmark of ADHD, cognitive deficiencies span beyond this one aspect. Dr. Amy shares with us that ADHD encompasses a range of cognitive needs, which necessitates a broader understanding and approach. Parents and educators must empathise with children's experiences, facilitating skill-building in various cognitive domains.

Managing stress and regulating emotions

The conversation with Dr. Amy extends to managing stress and emotional regulation in children with ADHD, a crucial aspect often overlooked in traditional diagnostic criteria. Approximately 80% of kids with ADHD experience emotional dysregulation. Support for emotional management isn’t just helpful, it’s vital. How parents model emotional responses  influences their child's ability to handle emotions.

Achieving academic success with ADHD

We discuss the misconceptions about academic accomplishments in kids with ADHD. Notably, the potential and strengths of individuals with ADHD are extraordinary, and with the right support, children can thrive academically. Dr. Amy emphasises that formal diagnoses, while helpful, is not a prerequisite for assisting a child—the focus should be on the child's unique needs.

The power of connection and communication

Finally, Dr. Amy and I recognise the importance of fostering a strong, supportive bond with children with ADHD. They stress communicating in an empathetic and loving manner to ensure children feel safe and understood. Building skills and connections preemptively combat potential mental health difficulties.

It’s clear that raising a confident child with ADHD involves a multi-faceted approach attentive to sleep patterns, nutrition, cognitive development, stress management, and emotional support. We must transform our perspectives to appreciate the unique brilliance children with ADHD offer.