By Gary E. Dudley, Ph.D.

Here are some suggestions to help ADD children in the home setting:

1. Set up specific time periods for waking, bedtime, chores, homework, playtime, TV, dinner, etc. Changes in schedule are disturbing to ADD children, so be as consistent as possible. Explain any changes ahead of time so they will be expected.
2. Set up clear and concise rules for the family, including the ADD child. Rules, as well as consequences for breaking them, and rewards for appropriate behavior can be written down and posted in a prominent place. Consistency is the rule here - if a rule is broken, consequences should follow every time. If the child behaves, he should earn rewards or privileges.
3. Give instructions as simply and clearly as possible. Ask the child to repeat them back to you, and praise him if he does so correctly. Do not give more than one or two instructions at a time. If a task is difficult or complex, break it into smaller parts and give one or two parts at a time.
4. Provide him with his own special quiet spot without distractions, in which to do homework or quiet activities. Face the desk towards a blank wall, avoid clutter and avoid bright or distracting patterns in decor. Remember, the child may have difficulty filtering out unnecessary stimulation.
5. Try to keep the child's stimulation level as low as possible. Have him play with one child at a time, involve him in one activity at a time, remove needless background noise such as radio or TV, have him put unused toys, games, etc. out of sight.
6. Keep a diary of foods eaten and the effects, if any, on the child's behavior. Although rare, sometimes allergies can produce reactions similar to hyperactivity. Be aware that the effects of eating a certain food may not show up until later that day or the next day. Some common food products may be chocolate, tomato products, wheat, sugar, milk products and peanuts. Note any strong reactions (such as headaches) to fumes from perfumes, inks, detergents or cleaning products.
7. Repeated messages, directions, requests, etc. ("nagging") are inefficient disciplinary techniques and create a variety of unpleasant side effects, including oppositional behavior and increased "tuning out" of the parents. To stop this ineffective process, try the following: Say what you need to say, but say it once - briefly - firmly - completely - calmly. Follow through with a logical consequence or restructuring approach. ACT - DON'T YAK!