Blurting out whatever is on his mind. Not everyone wants to know exactly what another person is thinking. Sometimes that can be hurtful and offensive. Practice speaking respectfully and filtering thoughts and actions with your child through role-play.
Having trouble understanding other people’s viewpoints. Without certain executive functions, it’s hard to recognize other people’s perspectives. You can play social games with your child, especially with specifically-designed flash cards with pictures and emotions in order to help your child understand his friends’ reactions.
Having meltdowns at social events. Children with ADHD or EFD can have trouble regulating their emotions when presented with new situations. You can play a wordless “Follow the Leader” with your child at home to help him practice responding to new social situations in the future.
Raising a child with ADHD or EFD is not easy – in or out of school. But the more we learn about these disorders, the more we understand how to help struggling children get their own lives under control. We can help our children learn and grow. With the right tools, we can help them develop into successful and socially-skilled adults.
Register now for an Anxiety workshop by Dr. Paul Foxman on November 17, 2015. Please call Mrs. Schonfeld at 718-382-5437 for more information.