Listen to thisThe Shire and the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, an independent review company of children's products, announced the selection criteria designed to help guide parents this season as they shop for toys for a child with ADHD.
"There is no doubt that children with ADHD have special play needs. Choosing the right toys for them to play with in order to help their growth and development can be a challenge," said Stephanie Oppenheim, a child development expert and co-founder of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio.
To their great credit, the company then went on to offer the following sensible tips for working and playing with their child with ADHD:
Play to their strengths
Many children with ADHD have plenty of energy that they need to use so
physical activity should be encouraged. For example, sports like
swimming or karate can provide a valuable outlet.
Build confidence
Children with ADHD have trouble completing lengthy tasks because they
often become frustrated and discouraged. While bringing home an
elaborate and complicated puzzle or construction set might seem like a
great treat, it may be too intimidating for a child with ADHD. Instead,
start out simpler and give your child a puzzle or construction set that
has fewer components and is recognizable, such as an oversized map of
the United States.
Remove distractions
Does your playroom look like a toy store? Children with ADHD are easily
distracted when there are lots of toys around vying for their attention.
To help your child focus, it might be helpful to have a play table where
only one game or toy can be played with at a time. Place other toys in
closed cabinets. In this case, less is definitely more.
Keep it short
Games with short play times are a better choice than those with
lengthier ones. Selecting games with only a few easy to understand rules
is the best choice for children with ADHD.
Dramatic play
Giving children the props for pretend play, whether it's a set of
costumes, puppets or a playhouse, also are solid choices for helping
children to develop their imaginations and communication skills.
Role-playing with dolls, stuffed animals or action figures allows
children to express feelings that they might not otherwise be able to do
directly.
Artistic expression
Many children with ADHD are often told that they are not doing something
the right way. Open-ended art supplies like clay, big markers or paints
give children an opportunity to express themselves in a non-verbal way.
There is no right or wrong way to use these art supplies. As a parent,
it is also your job to provide positive reinforcement. For example, you
can help coordinate an art show for family members to attend.
Make sure everyone is on the same team.
Be aware that you can help children cope with ADHD
and create a supportive environment that involves the whole family.
Children with ADHD cannot be expected to sit still for long projects or
games. It is important for everyone to be aware and considerate of each
other so that no one will end up frustrated or in tears.
