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You can find a lot of great advice on explaining ADHD to a young child — many parents use the analogy from Dr. Ned Hallowell of having a "racecar brain with worn-down brakes."
But as children grow, their thinking becomes more complex. At the same time, academic and social challenges increase, so simple explanations fall short during middle school.
Preteens need an upgrade in information about ADHD, as well as new study and organization strategies. Revisiting the discussion during the middle years also paves the way for helping your child monitor his own behavior and needs, and start taking on the responsibility for managing the condition.
Here are situations three tweens faced, and how their parents helped them revisit the ADHD discussion.
Next: In Charge of Medication
A version of this article appears in the Summer 2009 issue of ADDitude.
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