ADHD Parenting Tips for Fathers

Introduction

• Hosts: Mike Mloud (Grow Now ADHD) & Ryan Wexelblat (ADHD Dude)
• Backgrounds: Ryan is a licensed clinical social worker; Mike is a licensed speech and language pathologist.
• Purpose: Addressing the needs of fathers parenting children with ADHD, offering practical advice devoid of fluffy parenting tips.

Tip 1: ADHD is Not a Character Flaw

• ADHD is a brain difference, not a character issue.
• Behaviors often misinterpreted as character flaws.
• ADHD involves a developmental delay in executive functioning (e.g., lack of perspective taking, mental flexibility).
• It’s crucial for fathers to not personalize their child's behavior.
• Executive functioning in ADHD children is 2-3 years behind peers.

Tip 2: Share the Daily Routine

• Fathers should take over some daily routines, especially if married.
• Tag-team parenting helps prevent burnout, often experienced by mothers who handle executive functioning roles for the family.
• Areas for fathers to assist: morning routine, homework, evening routine.
• Importance of fathers spending individual time with each child.

Tip 3: Engage in Non-Screen Activities

• Encourage experiences outside of screen time (e.g., family movie night, running errands together).
• Importance of problem-solving activities (e.g., using maps instead of GPS).
• Helps develop stronger relationships and executive functioning.

Tip 4: Avoid Argument and Negotiation Vortex

• Avoid getting drawn into arguments or trying to reason with inflexible children.
• Emphasize parental authority without needing the child's buy-in.
• ADHD brains seek stimulation from arguments and screens.
• Use less verbal engagement and more visuals to manage dysregulation.

Additional Considerations

• Intellect does not equate to emotional maturity.
• Avoid negotiating with children solely based on their intellectual arguments.

Conclusion

• Understand parental fear and the challenges of setting boundaries.
• Listeners encouraged to share feedback and questions for future episodes.

Contact & Resources

• Email: [email protected]
• Websites: GrowNowADHD.com, ADHD.com
• Social Media: Mike on Instagram (@grownowadhd), Ryan on YouTube (ADHD Dude)