Taking a Leadership Role While Parenting the ADHD Child

Many parents are always looking for the magic pillsuccessfully teach your child good behaviors
that will make their child be on their best behaviorwhether they have behavior disorders or not. You
and never throw any tantrums or talk back.must step into the role of a leader. You are
Unfortunately, that pill does not exist and parentsleading the child. Do not allow the child to lead you.
are left with the task of trying to figure out theWhen you give into a child's pleading or bargaining
most effective method to teach desiredtactics, you are transferring the power in the
behaviors. Often times, parents become sorelationship to them. This is a recipe for disaster.
frustrated with their failed attempts at teaching aBe the leader and stay firm in all your decisions.
behavior, they will just give up and let the child doDo not allow for any bargaining. Enforce all
as he/she pleases. That is a dangerous routine toconsequences to breaking rules or stepping
get stuck in and will make the parenting job muchoutside your designated boundaries. Letting it slide
harder.even one time, tells the child you are not serious
Parents who are trying to raise children withabout the rules. They will most likely break the
ADHD, often feel like their attempts are teachingsame rule again to see what will happen. Your role
the child good behaviors and acceptable social skillsas a parent is synonymous with that of a leader.
are futile. This is not the case. Yes, they doDo you want to learn exactly how to eliminate
present some challenges, but they can beyour child's out-of-control and defiant behavior
overcome.without using Punishments, Time-Outs, Behavioral
By changing your style of parenting you canPlans, or Rewards?