Before we look at some useful ways of parenting an impulsive child, let us look at what causes this impulsivity. Basically any child with ADHD has a chemical imbalance in the brain. It simply means that he or she does not have all the elements to organize thoughts and actions such as concentrating, focusing and lots of other tasks that we do every day automatically. I know one specialist who has likened it to a child being blindfolded and there is just one hole in the blindfold. The child is confronted with making a decision or acting and has a limited vision of the situation. The child lashes out or grabs a toy or hits another child or dashes across the road. The chemicals he needs to look at the bigger picture, to enable him to think about any consequences of his actions are all missing or patchy and therefore his choices are extremely limited.
Here are some useful strategies for parenting an impulsive child and treating impulsive behaviours.
1. Be aware that some strong emotions can trigger impulsive behaviours and try to reduce these to an absolute minimum. These can range from the excitement of getting a new toy, a critical parent or teacher or an irritating sibling.
2. Organise plenty of activities which can provide a harmless outlet for impulsive actions. These can range from listening to music, sports, physical exercise and video games. Also activities such as a freeze dance can teach them more body control which helps in controlling impulsivity.
3. Talk to the child immediately after the impulsive action and in a non-threatening or belligerent way. Try to reason with the child and you will have to adapt your approach depending on their age. Make sure that you have system of rewards and consequences in place and the child knows and understands these. These are all essential elements in parenting an impulsive child.
4. Try to teach the child to learn to count to ten, take a deep breath before he loses it. This is also useful for parents too! In fact deep breathing and relaxation techniques should be part of the physical education program in the school curriculum.
Some parents are convinced that a good dose of psychostimulants (Ritalin, Strattera and Vyvanse) can do the job of treating impulsive behaviours just as effectively or simply they do not want to have to make the effort. But the National Institute of Health has issued several warnings about these drugs and have stated that "It is well known that psychostimulants have abuse potential" In addition there may be damage to the central nervous system and the heart.
But have you considered ADHD homeopathic treatments which have had enormous success and in combination with ADHD behavior modification can be one of the most effective ways of parenting an impulsive child? The ingredients like Hyoscyamus, Arsen Iod and Verta Alb can act on the child's brain and help him to calm down more and focus. There are no side effects and no risk of addiction at all. Why not learn more about these treatments here?
