7 years old: Behavioural Therapy for ADHD Success | daar

Max (Name changed for privacy) is a creative and energetic boy with a love for drawing and video games. He lives with his parents and younger brother. Diagnosed with ADHD (Combined Type) at age 7, Max has always struggled with the demands of the classroom and the routine of home life.
Presenting Issues:

• Inattention & Disorganization: Frequently losing school supplies, forgetting homework, and unable to complete multi-step tasks (e.g., "get dressed and brush your teeth").
• Impulsivity: Interrupting conversations, blurting out answers in class, and struggling to wait his turn during games.
• Emotional Dysregulation: Low frustration tolerance leading to tears or anger when tasks became difficult or boring.

The Challenge

Max’s parents described their daily life as "chaotic." Mornings were a battleground of reminders and nagging, leaving everyone stressed before the day even began.

Impact at Home & School:

• At School: Max was falling behind academically, not because he didn't understand the work, but because he couldn't focus long enough to finish it. His teacher reported that he was often out of his seat and distracting other students.
• At Home: Homework time was a nightly source of conflict. Max’s impulsivity also led to frequent arguments with his brother.
• Self-Esteem: Max had started to label himself as "dumb" and "bad," noticing that he was constantly being corrected while his peers were not.

We used to spend all our energy nagging Max. Now, the reward chart does the talking. He knows what he needs to do, and he feels so proud when he earns his tokens. It’s changed the whole vibe of our house.

daar Therapy Approach

Max’s family engaged daar to implement a structured behavioural therapy plan. We focused on executive functioning skills and positive reinforcement to help Max manage his ADHD symptoms.

Key Interventions Implemented:

• Token Economy System: We implemented a reward chart at home. Max earned tokens for specific behaviours like "completing morning routine without reminders" or "finishing homework." Tokens could be exchanged for screen time or special activities.
• Visual Schedules: To combat disorganization, we created visual checklists for the morning and evening routines. This externalized the "memory" work, allowing Max to self-monitor.
• "Chunking" Tasks: We taught Max and his parents to break large tasks (like cleaning his room) into small, manageable steps (1. Pick up clothes, 2. Pick up books) to prevent overwhelm.
• Socialised Behaviour Therapy: In sessions, we practiced "pause power"—stopping to think before acting. We used role-playing to practice waiting for a turn in conversation.
• Parent Training: We coached Max’s parents on "effective commands" (giving one clear instruction at a time) and the importance of immediate, specific praise to boost dopamine and motivation.

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Results and Progress

Over five months of consistent positive behaviour support, Max’s ability to manage his attention and impulses improved significantly.

Measurable Improvements:

• Morning Routine Independence: Max now completes his morning routine independently 4 out of 5 school days, compared to zero previously.
• Academic Engagement: Teacher reports indicate a marked increase in task completion. Max is staying in his seat for 20-minute blocks, up from 5 minutes.
• Reduced Conflict: Arguments over homework have decreased by 80%. Max uses a timer to "race" against the clock, turning work into a game.
• Improved Self-Esteem: Max no longer calls himself "dumb." He confidently tells his parents, "I just need to break this down," when facing a hard task.

Key Outcomes

Max’s journey highlights that ADHD is not a deficit of ability, but a deficit of performance. Behaviour therapy for children provides the scaffolding needed to bridge that gap.

• Executive Functioning: Max is learning the life skills of planning and organizing that will serve him into adulthood.
• Positive Feedback Loop: The shift from constant correction to positive reinforcement has rebuilt Max’s confidence and motivation.
• Family Peace: The reduction in daily friction has allowed the family to enjoy their time together again.

80 %

reduction in homework-related conflict and arguments

20

minutes of sustained focus in class (up from 5 mins)

4

days per week completing morning routine independently

Conclusion

ADHD can make life feel like a race with no finish line, but it doesn't have to be that way. Max’s story proves that with the right strategies and behavioural therapy, children with ADHD can channel their energy and creativity into success.

If your child is struggling with focus, impulsivity, or organization, daar can help. Our evidence-based approach empowers children and parents with practical tools for real-world change.

Ready to unlock your child’s potential?
Contact daar today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support your family’s journey with ADHD.