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TIPS FOR CAREGIVERS

Resources, information, ideas, and advice

There isn’t a handbook on how to raise a child with ADHD. Explore information, support, and opportunities to connect with other parents of children with ADHD.

Everyday tips for parenting a child with ADHD

The best way to help your child manage ADHD is to work closely with his or her doctor to create a plan that’s right for your child’s specific needs. Ask questions, learn as much as you can, and take an active role in your child’s health. Start by exploring the resources below.

  • Provide structure
    Keep a similar schedule every day, from morning until lights out. Include time for homework, activities, and so on. Write down any changes to the schedule in advance.

    Have a place for everything
    And keep everything in its place: clothing, books, etc.

    Organize their calendar
    Write down upcoming homework assignments and tests. Plan out steps and key dates for longer-term projects.

    Post a chart of household chores
    Check off items as they’re completed.

    Be clear and consistent with your child
    Children, with or without ADHD, need rules they can follow.

    Praise good behavior
    Children with ADHD often expect criticism. Reward them when they follow the rules.

    Respond when rules are broken
    Children want to be independent and try new things. If they break the rules, stay calm and be matter-of-fact in your response. Keeping your cool can be challenging, so step away to collect yourself when you need to.

    Try a tutor or coach
    A tutor may be able to help your child with a wide array of practical activities.

  • Take advantage of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
    Section 504 (for short) provides things like a recorder for note-taking, a quiet place to work, and access to a computer in school for written work.

    Read the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
    IDEA has a provision called the Individualized Education Program (IEP). It’s a comprehensive plan for addressing your child’s specific learning needs.

  • Provide a stress ball
    A small toy or other object that your child can squeeze or play with discreetly in his or her seat may be helpful.

    Limit screen time
    Instead of sitting with a computer or tablet, or in front of the television, encourage your child to engage in a physical activity.

    Encourage sports
    Playing a sport—or at least running around before and after school—can help a child with ADHD. Make sure your child never misses recess or a P.E. class.

    Offer errands
    Even if it's only walking across the room to sharpen pencils or put dishes away, ask your child with ADHD to run an errand or complete a task for you.

  • Provide necessary materials
    Ensure your child has all the necessary materials to do homework (paper, calculator, pencils, etc.) available in their workspace.

    Color-code folders
    Use color coding to help remind your child what goes where. A folder designated for completed homework that travels back and forth to home and school can be helpful for some students.

    Remove distractions
    Keep pets in another room, and set up a workplace that faces away from windows or a television.

    Use a timer
    Help your child know the difference between work time and break time with a timer. Schedule 5-10 minute breaks during homework to allow your child a chance to move around.

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Patient portrayals

See resources, research, and support networks for children with ADHD.

“I like to have my child involved in sports and after-school activities. I find that sports get out all of his energy in a positive and rewarding way he can be proud of.”

Real–life advice from Tiemere C., an actual caregiver for child with ADHD

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Support for children with ADHD

Browse through the following organizations and consider consulting your child’s guidance counselor for training on specific skills to help your child get organized, manage time, and practice good social skills.

ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO)

A professional membership organization for ADHD coaches and resources for the public.

Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)

Articles, personal stories, interviews with ADHD professionals, book reviews, and links to other ADHD-related sites.

Children and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)

National nonprofit organization working to improve the lives of affected people through education, advocacy, and support.

ADDConnect: An ADHD Community From ADDitude Magazine

Resource for families and adults living with ADHD and related conditions and the professionals who work with them.

National Institute on Drug Abuse

Part of the National Institutes of Health whose mission is to lead the nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction.

National Institute of Mental Health

Part of the National Institutes of Health whose mission is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Branch of the US Department of Health and Human Services whose mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities.

Support for our patients with ADHD or adults with moderate to severe B.E.D. during COVID-19

Takeda recognizes the concern related to COVID-19, and we are here to support our patients during this time.

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Takeda recognizes the concern related to COVID-19, and we are here to support our patients during this time.

Patient safety is Takeda's highest priority. As a company, we are committed to taking steps to keep the communities we serve updated with any new information that could help inform health decisions related to our medicines.

If you are currently taking Vyvanse, we strongly encourage you to stay in contact with your healthcare provider and to make use of any virtual or remote services that may be offered. You may also call our Medical Information Line at 1-800-828-2088 for questions regarding your medication.

For the parents of children (6+) with ADHD: For information on savings and paying for your child's medication, please click here.

For adults with ADHD: For information on savings and paying for your medication, please click here.

For adults with moderate to severe Binge Eating Disorder (B.E.D.): For information on savings and paying for your medication, please click here.

For more information about Takeda, COVID-19, and other updates, visit www.takeda.com.

The following resources may provide further helpful information during this time:

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