H.D. asks from Burlington, MA on February 15, 2009
Disciplining ADHD 10Yr Old
I will try to keep this brief.
Our 10.5 yr old daughter has ADHD. She is medicated, though I don't think it helps as much as it should, she is on the highest dose for her weight. She has been all other meds and nothing.
Now to the question. She is sneaky at times and doesn't see anything wrong with it unless she is caught. Example:
Today she had an inflatable boat, used for barbies. My husband saw her in the kitchen, walked towards her, she turned quickly, not sure which way to go. He looked into the boat and it was filled with mini donuts that she was trying to take down to the playroom for her and her sister. Now, if she had asked for the donuts, she would have been allowed to have some, but not in the playroom. Since she was sneaky, no donuts.
This is just one example, there are about 1-2 issues of this type of behavior weekly. We are not sure how to handle the sneakiness.
Any ideas?
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More Answers
R.K. answers from Springfield on February 15, 2009
I'm not sure if she would be too old for you to use this book but Magic 1-2-3 has a discipline book directed towards adhd. Just curious but have you tried changing her diet? I've heard from several people that going gluten free/casien free and avoiding artificial colorings help it might be worth a try.
G.V. answers from New London on February 16, 2009
This is totally normal - all kids are sneaky at one point or another! I know you might not agree with me but have you thought of this: Instead of reprimanding her when you see her sneaky, such as this last case where you didn't give you any donuts, how about doing it this way: next time that happens, say, "I don't like you being sneaky, trying to sneak away with the donuts. I'd like you next time to please ask, OK? I will let you have the donuts for you and your sister, but please ask next time. I love you!" And, trust me, next time, because of this positive reinforcement, she will ask. She is sneaky now because when she gets caught, you punish her. So imagine how many times she is sneaky and you DON'T catch her?
M.B. answers from Providence on February 16, 2009
Hello, I agree 100% with the other mothers. I used this book when my son was young and he is a 21 yr. old college student now. He has border line ADHD, executive functioning disorder, dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia . My son remembers this book to this day. And always jokes how he hated it - but it works.
The book does work, but everyone has to be involved and you must be consistant. Barnes and Nobel has it ISBN-13: 9781889140162 1-2-3 Magic: Effective Dicipline for Children 2-12. by Thomas Phelan Ph.D. I've since passed this on to others to use.
I've also noticed that there is a book for kids, and CD's available.....time has certainly passed quickly. Good luck and hang in there, it will not only help with your 10 year old, but will the children at the Child Care center and the other siblings.
D.F. answers from Boston on February 15, 2009
I am on my way out to buy this book. I do not want my older son on meds anymore. Take a look at this site. Good luck1
N.C. answers from Portland on February 16, 2009
Hello H.. I sense there is a lot more going on here besides the episodes of 'sneakiness' with a 10.5y/o diagnosed with ADHD, but I'll give this one a try and address the 'sneakiness' First, as a completely objective party here, I wish to offer the possibility that you need to step back a little, and b r e a t h e. I mean this seriously. You have obviously been interacting with your little girl on a level many of us parents do not. It is not an easy role for a parent with a child with ADHD. To me, the word 'impulsive' came to mind when I read your story...not so much 'sneakiness', although it does appear to be a component. My thought is your daughter may be 'sneaking' as a coping skill due to your reaction to her 'impulsivity' that occurs due to her ADHD. I know. Its a vicious circle, which is why I am suggesting you back away a bit and revisit her diagnosis with your pediatrician if possible. There are many experts out there in the field...many probably right here on Mamasourse. :) It is my wish you receive lots of new ideas for alternative programs for your child as well...there is much to be said for yoga for kids, Tai Chi, and herbal and homeopathic remedies for children diagnosed with ADHD.
Oh! And DIET DIET DIET!!!! No preservatives. NONE! No 'WHITE FOODS'...sugar, white flour, starchy potatoes...No chemicals, No SODA! No Food dyes! Diet is a 'given' when it comes to a child with this diagnosis...I don't think donuts is on the menu H., sorry. It really really is doable to change the way she eats...it can actually be fun to research how to eat healthy, and contrary to what folks believe it costs LESS to eat healthy. There are books out there for kids and adults with ADHD that have great recipes for sweets etc. Good luck with this H.....hang in there. Be Peace, N.
J.S. answers from Providence on February 16, 2009
Hi H.,
I am sure this behavior is very frustrating. I know you said you tried many different medications. Have you ever considered her diet? My own daughter is allergic to artificial color and flavor. I notice a big change in her "behavior" if she does have any of those mentioned items.
I guess there is something positive to be said about a natural diet.
It is just an idea good luck.
Jennifer
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