How to Survive School Breaks
Breaks from school during the holidays can be a stressful time for everyone, but children and adults with ADD/ADHD can find it particularly challenging. The added sweets, differences in routine, and change in sleep schedules can be a recipe for disaster, but it doesn't have to be.
When children are younger these breaks can often lead to meltdowns, tantrums, and overstimulation as general coping skills have yet to fully form. As children hit middle and high school ages you may see less meltdowns and tantrums and more withdrawal, frustration, and anxiety. So, how can you help? By providing routine, consistency, and a good sleep schedule.
Try to keep some type of consistent schedule most days over break, and make sure your child is eating nutritious foods. Try to steer clear of red dyes as it can really effect some children with ADHD. The struggle for these kiddos increases over the holidays, as they try to manage emotions, and overwhelm from the change in routine. One thing that can help alleviate this additional stress is starting a gratitude practice. There are a lot of current studies out that show the immense benefits of having a daily gratitude practice. This effective tool can not only be utilized by those who have ADD and ADHD, but all individuals.
Begin by having each child/family member share something they are appreciative of, or a win they had that day at the dinner table or when they wake up. If you want to take it a step farther, have your child state one thing they love about themself. Many students with ADD/ADHD struggle with seeing the good in themselves due to years of being told they were bad or naughty by well intentioned adults who just didn't understand how the ADD/ADHD brain works. If your child struggles with this, another activity I like to use at the dinner table is to have my children say one thing they love about the person on their left. I'd love to hear how it goes when you try this with your family.
Check out this video for more ideas on how to start a gratitude practice.
