#28 MEMORY IMPROVEMENT TECHNIQUES PARENTS CAN DO FOR CHILDREN WITH ADHD

   A child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has difficulty in following directions, will have impaired functions in concentration, and suffer from a lack of memory and impulse control. Parents may find caring for children with ADHD a real challenge. However, they can do a lot to help a child with ADHD. Safe and effective techniques and treatments are now available to help children with ADHD, especially for memory improvement and concentration. Here are some techniques for memory improvement parents may find useful in caring for children with ADHD.

   Exercise and Outdoor Activities. A simple way to exercise is walking with your child at the park or a scenic area for at least 30 minutes. Simple exercises increase blood flow to the brain and lessen nervousness and anxiety. Physical activities such as biking, hiking are also good to reduce symptoms of ADHD. Do exercises and fun physical activities with your child every day.

   Sleep. An ample amount of sleep is important. If your child has difficulty sleeping at night, you may want to limit naptime during the day. Set a time for bedtime and strictly follow it.

   Provide a quiet place for study. When studying with your child find a quiet place that is free of distraction and interruptions. If possible, study in a room with no toys, computer, television or radio. This will help the child to focus more on the study material. Point out the things the child needs to remember. For example, you may say “I want you to remember [fact or important point]” before reviewing that material with your child. Allow time for breaks, especially when your child already shows sign of restlessness during a study period.

   Commendations. ADHD children are mostly creative and imaginative. Be quick to notice, commend and even reward your child’s good behavior, achievements and improvements however small they are. This way, they will feel loved and this will encourage them to continue to do better. However, inappropriate behavior should also call for proper discipline.

   Memory and Concentration Games. Puzzles and other memory games are fun tools that will improve the child’s memory. Not all memory games, though, will be suitable for a child with ADHD. Look through user reviews for other parents’ recommendations when you are searching for computer based memory games that would best suit your child. Ultimate Memory software, for example, is a system that include fun memory building games and memory techniques that is appropriate for children and adults at all levels of learning, and can be of particular interest to a child with ADHD because it can track their personal progress. Giving a child evidence of their progress and success will motivate them to continue using the system.

   In the end, the best resource for treating your child’s attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is you. Support from both parents will definitely make a lot of difference. The positive influence you provide to your child will have a great impact on their emotional and physical control. As a parent, you have the ability to help your child to cope with their daily challenges and succeed in life.