What is it about holiday season that can be so much fun, yet so disruptive at the same time? Holidays are filled with family, love, and celebration, but holidays can also create stress. This time of year can be particularly disruptive for children and adults with ADHD.
“The main problem with the holidays is the change in routine. People with ADHD need structure and routines in order to function at their best,” says Patricia Quinn, M.D., developmental pediatrician from Washington, D.C. “They need to know what to expect and what is expected of them.”
Dr. Quinn explains that any activity that involves waiting is difficult. Shopping, waiting for a play or service to begin, waiting to open gifts, waiting for family meals -– all these activities require waiting.
The holidays are here. What is the best way for parents to help their children get through this period?
Dr. Quinn says that preparing for the unexpected is key. “Parents can help children by preparing them ahead of time for visits to unfamiliar settings and avoiding long waits. Sending someone else in ahead of time to save seats for performances or services and having the child with ADHD arrive closer to the opening can prevent a melt down and make the activity more enjoyable for all involved.”
She also suggests creating a "schedule of events" and posting it for the family to view. “In this way, the child with ADHD will know what to expect and can stay on a schedule, it just might not be the same one as on school days,” says Dr. Quinn.
Getting enough rest is also important, as is adjusting medication to fit the holiday routines. “This is not the time to go on a 'drug holiday.' Parents should discuss with their child's physician how to adjust dosing schedules so that medication is in effect and can control symptoms for late night festivities, religious services or when traveling,” recommends Dr. Quinn.
Dr. Quinn also notes that parents might want to consider some of the newer longer-acting medications that give symptom coverage for 12 hours.
Adults should also be focused on getting enough rest and making sure that their medication is in effect for all activities including last-minute, late-night shopping.
“Planning ahead, keeping things simple and prioritizing are the best ways to avoid stress,” says Dr. Quinn. “Celebrating at home with your own traditions rather than traveling to other locations may allow for quieter and more enjoyable holidays for parents and children alike.” In these familiar settings the rules and boundaries are clearer and so children are typically better able to control their behaviors.
Dr. Quinn sums it up, “Decide on what is important to you and your family and make decisions that are ADHD-friendly.”
Source:
Patricia Quinn, M.D. “Re: Request for Expert Quotes.” Email to Keath Low. 20 Dec. 2007.Photo © Microsoft
