Boredom and ADHD
“I’m bored!”
A phrase that drives parents crazy. For most kids, boredom provides an opportunity to develop important skills: problem-solving, creativity, time management, and more.
However, children with ADHD may struggle with boredom. They often need more stimulation to stay focused, which can lead to undesirable behaviors: risk taking, dysregulated energy, avoiding sleep, obsessing over certain interests, or seeking attention through negative means rather than positive. It’s important to note that God made each child a unique creation-- not all strategies are effective for all kids! You may need to mix and match strategies to find the right combination to help your child.
How can parents and caregivers support their child with ADHD to beat summer boredom?
Provide a clear schedule for the day
Keep fidgets or small activity books on-hand for waiting in lines or traveling in cars
Incorporate regular “moving time” like dance parties, walks, bike riding. Stay ACTIVE!
Allow tech use but monitor the amount of time. Use blue light protection.
Incorporate interests into a reward system. ADHD kiddos benefit from meaningful goals
Schedule time with friends as often as you can, summer break can feel “isolating.” Stay SOCIAL!
Time management struggles can make transitions and waiting hard. Use timers and create challenges.
Offer some (not all) structured choices: “We can do this, or we can do that”
Provide frequent feedback and positive reinforcement.
