A display of dramatics is not exclusive to children with ADHD, but the condition can make meltdowns more extreme and more frequent. To reduce the number and severity of his scenes, try these strategies: Breathing techniques to help your son calm down Positive self-talk to enable him to develop self-control (“I can handle this and work something out with Mom or Dad.”) [ Free Resource: Neutralize Your Child’s Anger ] Keep a diary of his moments of discontent, along with potential solutions when he has to face them again. Parents can anticipate situations that make meltdowns more likely. Don’t agree to an activity until you have a plan to avoid trouble spots. Say, “I know you won’t want to leave your friend’s house at the end of the visit, so what would help you leave on a happy note?” More tips How Can We Help Inattentive Children? How Can ADHD Moms Teach Good Habits? Get Your Kids Off The Couch My Daughter Reverses Letters, Numbers… Save

No More Drama!

“When I ask my 10-year-old son, who has ADHD, to do something that he doesn’t want to do, he complains and whines. I talk to him calmly, but what else can I do to avoid meltdowns?”

By Carol Brady, Ph.D. Verified Updated on March 30, 2023

A display of dramatics is not exclusive to children with ADHD, but the condition can make meltdowns more extreme and more frequent. To reduce the number and severity of his scenes, try these strategies:

Breathing techniques to help your son calm down

Positive self-talk to enable him to develop self-control (“I can handle this and work something out with Mom or Dad.”)

[Free Resource: Neutralize Your Child’s Anger]

Keep a diary of his moments of discontent, along with potential solutions when he has to face them again.

Parents can anticipate situations that make meltdowns more likely. Don’t agree to an activity until you have a plan to avoid trouble spots. Say, “I know you won’t want to leave your friend’s house at the end of the visit, so what would help you leave on a happy note?”

More tips