Grace. It’s a powerful word and one that you should be repeating to yourself over and over again if you’re the parent of children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Every big emotion, forgotten homework assignment, or mess left behind can remind you of your child’s ADHD.
These are the things, along with interrupted conversations, excessive talking, and lost socks, that can make you, as a parent, feel overwhelmed and exasperated when dealing with children with ADHD.
Parenting Children with ADHD
Parenting a child can be challenging, regardless of whether they have ADHD. However, if that is your situation, it helps to realize that your child isn’t being “bad” or “rebellious.” ADHD is a real condition that creates real obstacles that you and your child have to learn to deal with. While your child may receive therapy, it’s important to note that parents need it, too. Therapy can be beneficial for your coping and can help achieve the goal of extending grace to your child.
Your therapist will help you to focus on the positive aspects of children with ADHD. They will teach you to appreciate your child’s moments of hyperfocus and embrace the empathetic spirit that often accompanies ADHD. You will learn to use positive reinforcement and celebrate small wins, even if it is only having a conversation where your child doesn’t interrupt you.
Through therapy, you can learn to avoid doling out harsh criticism or punishment for ADHD-related behaviors. Instead, you will learn to focus on collaborative problem-solving with your child and that rewards are often a better motivator than punishment.
Most importantly, a therapist can be your advocate, a listening ear that reminds you how beautifully and wonderfully your child was made. God has a purpose for your child and their unique gifts and talents. Don’t let your frustrations and fears overwhelm your relationship with that special child that God entrusted into your care.
When life with ADHD gets to be frustrating, you realize that your child is frustrated too. Your child wants to please you but is lacking the skills and practice to meet your expectations. All of us, as fallible humans, lack the willpower, education, and skills to live a blameless and spotless life.
Our Heavenly Father, in His infinite wisdom, created a plan of redemption for us, not despite, but because of, our weaknesses and frailties. Mirror God’s grace to humankind when you deal with your child to help them flourish and help them grow. Supporting them will fan their empathy and creativity into flame. It will help them become the person that God intended them to be.
Grace. It’s what will usher you into heaven, despite the mistakes you’ve made. Grace. It’s what repairs damaged marriages and teaches children to forgive. Grace. It’s the glue that holds families together. Grace. It’s what shows children with ADHD that you love them unconditionally, through all that is challenging. God has shown you grace through your mishaps and mistakes which provides you with the example you need to love your child through theirs.
Christian Counseling for Children in Vancouver, Washington
Don’t let frustration and the feelings of being overwhelmed rob you of an unbreakable and beautiful bond with your child. If you are at your wit’s end, consider faith-based therapy in Vancouver, Washington. Call our office today at Vancouver Christian Counseling in Washington. We have a variety of Christian counselors in Vancouver who are equipped to help you and your child flourish.
Photo:
“Sea Rocks,” Courtesy of Aniket Deole, Unsplash.com, CC0 License
