Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Friday, March 20, 2009 lovemyson asks

Q: How do I handle my 4 year olds sons impulsiveness?

My son was diagnosed with ADHD a few months ago but was to young to start meds. He is now 4 and his Dr. prescribed Adderall, which he just started today, I wasn't to comfortable with this, but he does things like climb walls, throws himself down stairs, trys to climb out windows and thank God never gets hurt, My other children get very upset because we can't go anywhere, he takes up all of my time, and I can never get a babysitter.  He can be violent and very angry at times and absolutely will not share.  I want to be able to enjoy life with my son but right now all I can do is wait and see what he does next. Open to all suggestions  

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Answers (3)
Eileen Bailey, Health Guide
3/21/09 6:25am

Thank you for your question and welcome to ADHDCentral.com.

 

I can understand that you must be quite frustrated and it is good that you are looking for ways to help your son. Medication can often help, but even so, behavioral strategies are also needed for children with ADHD.

 

Children with ADHD often respond to discipline that is consistent and based on a positive reward system. Behavior modification techniques, such as charts using stickers and rewards may help.

 

I am providing you links to some articles that discuss behavior modification, unruly children and helping siblings cope.

 

Strategies for Parenting Children with ADHD

 

Creating a Discipline Process at Home

 

Games to Motivate your Children

 

The Out Of Control Child

 

Coping Strategies for Siblings

 

I hope this information helps.

 

Eileen

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3/26/09 12:53pm

Wow! It sounds like you really have your hands full.  My son who is now 14 was diagnosed ADHD at 8 and we did not start meds till he was 13. 5 very long years!  He did unfortunately jump down a flight of stairs and earn a compound fracture to his ankel that needed to be surgically set....He regularly climbs the trees and is an aggressive bike rider.  I also have a daughter who is 2 years younger and has had to learn how to co-exist with him.  The good news is that it will get better!!!!  As they get older my son has developed more healthy/safe outlets and his sister has a great understanding and tolerance.

 

I had many discussions with my daughter explaining what was going on with her bro and suggesting ways to protect herself and still enjoy him.  They have a wonderful relationship and have learned how to play together and both get something out of it.  On the weekends when they were younger my husband and I would split the kids so they each got some one on one attention and did not have to deal with each other.  If leaving your son with a sitter is not an option then let a sitter take your other kids to the movies or the park so they get some time away from the fray.  This will also give you some one on one time to work on relating to your son.  When Jake was younger the most powerful thing I could say to him was I know you are frustrated, I understand that you are finding it difficult to make the right choice, I hear you! Now, I need you to hear me, I need to work with you and make some deals here.  When he felt validated he was much more receptive.  Good luck and hang in there!!  I hope this is helpful!!!

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3/28/09 12:09pm

I have a 4 year old with adhd and hes on med.nothing seems to work .cant go no where or do anything with family because he throws his fit all the time .they changed his med several times and its not working at all. so i know what you are going throw i wish i could help but i need halp also all i do is look up things on internet to see what i can do to help havent found anything yet i feel for you good luck

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By lovemyson— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 03/20/09