Max (Name changed for privacy) is a creative and energetic boy who loves dinosaurs and drawing. He lives with his parents and older brother. Diagnosed with ADHD at age 6, Max has struggled with impulsivity and sustaining attention, which has begun to affect his self-esteem and family dynamics.
Presenting Issues:
- Impulsivity: Frequently interrupting conversations, blurting out answers in class, and struggling to wait his turn.
- Inattention: Difficulty following multi-step instructions, often losing school supplies, and leaving tasks unfinished.
- Emotional Dysregulation: Becoming easily frustrated with homework, leading to tears and refusal to work.
The Challenge
Max’s parents described their home life as "chaotic." Mornings were a particular struggle, with constant reminders needed for Max to get dressed and eat breakfast.
Impact at Home & School:
- At Home: The daily battles over routine tasks were exhausting. Max’s parents felt they were constantly nagging, which strained their relationship with him. His older brother often felt overlooked due to the attention Max’s behaviour required.
- At School: Max’s teacher reported that while he was bright, his inability to sit still and focus was disrupting his learning. He was falling behind in reading because he couldn't pay attention during group time.
- Socially: Max was struggling to make friends because he would often interrupt games or struggle to follow the rules, leading peers to exclude him.
We were skeptical that a chart could change things, but the difference has been night and day. Max is so proud when he earns his points, and we finally feel like we're on the same team instead of constantly fighting.
daar Therapy Approach
Max’s family turned to daar for guidance. We implemented a comprehensive positive behaviour support plan tailored to Max’s unique needs, focusing on building executive function skills and empowering his parents.
Key Interventions Implemented:
- Parent Training: We utilized evidence-based strategies similar to the Positive Parenting Program (Triple P). Max’s parents learned to use "labeled praise" to reinforce specific positive behaviours (e.g., "I love how you waited your turn!") and to give clear, concise instructions.
- Visual Schedules: To combat morning chaos, we created a visual checklist for Max’s morning routine. This allowed him to see exactly what needed to be done (brush teeth, get dressed, pack bag) without constant verbal reminders.
- Token Economy System: A "Dino Points" chart was introduced. Max earned points for specific goals like "sitting for 10 minutes of homework" or "raising a hand before speaking." Points could be traded for rewards like extra drawing time or a trip to the park.
- Socialised Behaviour Therapy: In sessions, Max practiced "stop and think" strategies to manage impulsivity. We used role-playing games to teach him how to join conversations and play cooperatively with peers.
- School Collaboration: We worked with Max’s teacher to implement a "Daily Report Card" that tracked three specific goals. This ensured consistency between home and school, with Max earning rewards at home for a good day at school.
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Results and Progress
Over a period of six months, the consistent application of these behavioural strategies led to significant improvements in Max’s ability to manage his ADHD symptoms.
Measurable Improvements:
- Morning Routine: Max now completes his morning routine independently 4 out of 5 school days, reducing family stress significantly.
- Classroom Focus: His teacher reports a 60% increase in on-task behaviour during independent work time.
- Social Skills: Max has formed two close friendships and is invited to playdates, showing improved ability to take turns and share.
- Emotional Control: Homework meltdowns have decreased from daily occurrences to occasional frustrations that Max can now navigate with help.
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Key Outcomes
Max’s success story highlights the power of behaviour therapy for children with ADHD. It’s not about "curing" the condition, but about providing the tools to manage it.
- Empowered Parents: Max’s parents now feel confident in their ability to handle challenges using positive reinforcement rather than punishment.
- Increased Confidence: Max sees himself as capable and successful, rather than "naughty" or "bad."
- Holistic Success: Improvements have been seen across all areas of Max’s life—home, school, and social relationships.
Increase in on-task behaviour during class
Reduction in morning routine conflicts
completing routine independently
Conclusion
ADHD can be challenging, but it doesn't have to define your child's future. With the right support and socialised behaviour therapy, children like Max can learn to channel their energy and reach their full potential.
If you are looking for effective strategies to support your child with ADHD, daar is here to help. Our team of experts can design a personalised plan to bring calm and confidence back to your family.
Ready to see your child thrive?
Contact daar today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can support your child's behaviour and progress.
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