Help Your Kids Make Friends

Forming friendships can be difficult for children who have ADHD. Here are tips to make it easier when you want to invite a friend over to play.

by ADDitude Editors

• Plan on making the first visit short (the length of a movie or about an hour). Gradually increase time together on subsequent visits.

• Before the friend comes over, discuss with your child what activities they might enjoy together. Limit solitary activities such as video games.

• Put away your child's "sacred possessions" — the toys or other special items he doesn't want touched.

• Go over house rules for having friends over — what they can and cannot do.

• Teach guest etiquette, such as "Let the guest choose the first activity," and "Take turns."