How Parents Can Help Prevent ADHD Development in Their Kids

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) begins to manifest during childhood, but there are signs like exuberance and over-excitability that may indicate which kid is predisposed to the condition. Parents who observe these signs early enough can help prevent the development of ADHD in the child, according to a new study.

Many factors influence whether a child will have ADHD or not. These factors include patenting, temperament, and the brain's executive functions.

The new study found that exuberant temperament (such as high excitement, curiosity, and positive responses to unfamiliar people and contexts) and parenting style can significantly influence the development of ADHD.

The findings suggest that if parents can guide such a child using verbal and physical cues to navigate unfamiliar situations, they may help prevent ADHD development in the child.

Exuberance in children is often positive and appreciated by the parents. However, it sometimes comes with a drawback. These same kids can struggle with self-regulation and executive functions, such as memory and flexible thinking.

“Symptoms of ADHD typically stabilize from ages five to nine and decrease from ages nine to 15. But for predictable cases of very young children with exuberant temperament and less directive parenting, that stabilization may not occur,” said Dr. Heather Henderson, co-author of the study.

Exercise and Discipline in Preventing ADHD Development

Past studies have shown that plenty of exercise can help prevent ADHD development in children. Children who exercise regularly have been found to have a lower risk for ADHD. This may be due to the fact that exercise pushes oxygen and nutrients into the brain, promoting healthy brain development.

Disciplining a child with purpose and warmth may also help kids regulate themselves better, preventing ADHD development. Encourage and support them. Don't punish.

Obviously, parents play a very important role.

The Bottom Line

The bottom line is for parents to be more actively involved with their kids if they notice this trait of exuberance in their little children. Guiding them can go a long way to curbing their excitability when exposed to new situations, and help them to self-regulate, thereby preventing their ADHD symptoms from worsening.

If you've observed these traits in your kid and are unsure what to do, our child psychiatrists can help you.

Visit Hope Mental Health, use our telehealth service, or simply contact us now. Let's give you and your family the tools you need to lead productive and happy lives.

Author

Satu H. Woodland, PMHCNS-BC, APRN Satu Woodland is owner and clinician of Hope Mental Health, an integrative mental health practice located at Bown Crossing in Boise, Idaho. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.  Ms. Woodland with her background in nursing, prefers a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care that addresses the mind and body together. While Ms. Woodland provides medication management services in all her patients, she believes in long-lasting solutions that include a number of psychotherapies, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy, attention to lifestyle, evidenced based alternative psychiatric care and spirituality. If you’d like to gain control over your mental health issues, call Hope Mental Health at 208-918-0958, or use the online scheduling tool to set up an initial consultation.