Does your child become overwhelmed when it’s time to stop gaming, turn off the television, leave the park, get ready for bed, or leave for school?
Transitions can be especially difficult for children with ADHD. Moving from one activity to another requires the brain to notice the passage of time, stop something rewarding, shift attention, remember the next step, and manage disappointment—all at once.
In this video, I explain why transitions can trigger powerful emotional reactions and share six practical ways parents can help:
• Identify patterns and triggers
• Make routines predictable and visible
• Agree on the ending before an activity begins
• Use timers and other ways to make time visible
• Build a bridge between activities
• Notice and reinforce successful transitions
I also discuss what to do when a child is already having a meltdown, why fewer words are often more helpful in that moment, and when a family should seek professional support.
The goal is not to remove every boundary or expect a child to enjoy stopping a preferred activity. It is to make transitions safer, calmer, and more predictable while gradually building independence.
Hold the boundary. Help your child cross it.
Please share in the comments which transition is most difficult in your home.
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Important: This video provides general educational information. It is not a substitute for an individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Speak with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional if you have concerns about your child. If anyone is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency service.
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