By Karla Pretorius (Psychologist and Parent Coach)
As a parent, you want your child to be as independent as possible. You want them to be able to do things on their own, without needing your help. This can be a challenge when your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or ASD.
Here are some tips for increasing independence in children diagnosed with ADHD or ASD
1. Encourage Them To Do Things On Their Own:
Even if it takes them longer to do it. For example, if they are getting dressed in the morning, let them do it on their own. If they need help, give them specific instructions on what to do. This will help them to learn how to do things on their own.
2. Give Them Responsibility: Give your child responsibility around the house. This could be simple tasks like setting the table for dinner or feeding the dog. This will help them to feel more independent and capable.
3. Help Them To Plan And Organize:
Children diagnosed with ADHD or ASD can often find it hard to plan and organize. Help them to break tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if they are doing their homework, help them to plan out when they will do each task. This will help them to feel less overwhelmed and more in control.
4. Encourage Them To Try New Things:
Try this, even if they are unsure about them. This could be something as simple as trying a new food or going to a new place. This will help them to feel more confident and independent.
5. Be Patient:
It can be frustrating when your child isn’t as independent as you want them to be. But it’s important to be patient. Independence will come with time and practice.
Do you want your child to be more independent? Apply for our FREE group coaching program by 21 August!
You could be one of 20 parents that'll get the opportunity to join our very first 8-week group parent coaching program - for FREE.
MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM
If you’re a parent of a child (3-19 y/o) diagnosed with autism (ASD) and/or ADHD and want practical tips & strategies from expert parent coaches on how to raise an independent child, as well as connect with other parents who share your experiences - this program is for you.
You'll also be given the opportunity to provide feedback on your program experience. Your feedback will be used to help us improve support for thousands of other families, just like yours.
About our parent coaches: AIMS Global specializes in teaching neurodivergent individuals and their families practical skills that improve communication, independence and coping skills.
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- Applications close on the 21st of August.
- Parents should be based in the US, UK or South Africa.
- Go to our bio or www.tracto.app/groupcoaching to apply today!
We look forward to meeting you. Feel free to contact us via support@tracto.app if you have any questions 😊