| A common issue all families face is the wild and | | | | It is normal for a child to become bored fairly |
| crazy antics that seem to happen while the family | | | | quickly while just sitting at the table. To avoid |
| is sitting down to a meal. It is possible to have | | | | boredom, which will most likely spur undesirable |
| peaceful, enjoyable meals as a family. Families | | | | behavior, engage the child in conversation. Choose |
| with young children and children diagnosed with | | | | a topic that is age appropriate. Ask them |
| ADHD have some extra challenges to overcome, | | | | questions about their day. Feel free to share |
| but it can be done. | | | | highlights from your day as well. |
| Parents may find it difficult to explain the | | | | Practice good table manners and you will be |
| behaviors they desire verbally. Children with ADHD | | | | teaching them valuable social skills without them |
| have limited attention spans and would most likely | | | | ever realizing it. When the child behaves in a |
| not hear the entire set of directions regarding a | | | | manner you approve of, let them know. Be |
| particular behavior. So how can you work around | | | | specific about what they are doing that you like. |
| this? | | | | Just by setting a good example you are teaching |
| Lead by example. For instance, you want your | | | | your child a number of different skills they will |
| child to sit through a meal at the dinner table | | | | carry with them for the rest of their lives. |
| without getting out of their seat. This can be very | | | | Do you want to learn exactly how to eliminate |
| difficult for any child and especially one that is | | | | your child's out-of-control and defiant behavior |
| hyperactive. Set the example and make sure you | | | | without using punishments, time-outs, behavioral |
| stay seated during the entire meal. Give the child | | | | plans, or rewards? |
| a visual of what you are asking of them. | | | | |