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Influence Positive Play
Set a good example. Show your child how to act in social situations by making an effort to forge friendships with the parents of your child's peers. Stay connected to the community through clubs, religious organizations, etc. as well.
Take teasing head on. Teasing, bullying and playful banter are an inevitable part of childhood, but ADHD kids often don't know how to respond. Parents should encourage their children to stand up to teasing, but to not overreact, which might escalate the problem.
Keep play dates short. For kids age 10 or under, three hours or less is probably best. Coach your child on how to behave beforehand, and talk about how things went after it's over.
Let kids go—but not completely. Experts recommended that parents let teens sort out social situations on their own, but don't back away completely. A recent study of seventh- through twelfth-graders suggests that teens who have close relationships with their parents—those who talk often, share activities, and are affectionate with each other—also tend to have good friendships.
Next: Medication Can Help
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