ADHD at Home: In the Kitchen

When my son was about four, and not yet diagnosed with ADHD, we were finally realizing that the things that most kids learned by osmosis, just weren't happening for him. Sustained attention was nearly impossible for him. And we were going to have to actually teach him things like waiting for mealtime. While other kids slowly came to the understanding that good things really do come to those who wait, our kids just don't get that message. In fact, we help them come to an entirely different realization - that good things come to those who whine. And that whining gets them whatever they wanted faster.

It can take a while to reverse this.

Here are a few ways to make meal times more fun while teaching your child to wait;

1. Let your child be part of the preparation process. Have him set the table, put ingredients in the bowl, or stir for you. It's as simple as that.

2. Ask him to count as you measure ingredients or count food that goes into the pan.

3. Talk constantly. I know, I know...that's his job. But if you are constantly explaining what is going on, what you're doing...it gives his mind something to do, not just this time, but subsequent times too.

Example: You're making macaroni and cheese. Open the silverware drawer and let him count out four sets of (or however many you need) forks, and spoons. As you're making preparations behind him, ask with true curiosity, "I wonder how many that is all together?" Next, show him where the number two is on the measuring cup. Measure out the milk as he counts and says "2" when you get to the 2 cup mark. Explain everything you're doing. Such as, "I'm putting the water on to boil first because if I put the macaroni noodles in cold water, they'll all get stuck together. I'm putting a little salt in the water because then the salt will flavor the noodles just a little. I'm measuring carefully because I don't want the mac and cheese to be too runny - that's what happens when you use too much milk..."

You get the idea. Active children are very curious. With the right tone of voice, and enthusiasm, you can keep his attention and teach him to wait all at the same time. What have you tried, to make meal preparation time more enjoyable with your ADHD child? We'd love to know your ideas too! ~Karen