Attention Deficit? If you are reading this blog, research tells us that on average the reader will stay engaged for 10-20 seconds, reading about 20 to 28% of the content before getting distracted and moving on.
Fifteen years ago, our attention spans were about 12 seconds. Today, our attention spans have shrunk to 8.25 seconds. How can a parent know when the distraction and short attention spans they see with their children is something more than a cultural trend?
ADHD is now being diagnosed across all age ranges. With the ever increasing rise of distractions so readily available to our children, parents are noticing the effects. Our children’s attention spans are shrinking, they’re constantly fidgeting and have a difficult time focusing for more than a few minutes.
We know that ADHD can also co-occur and even mask other mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. When these traits begin to get in the way of your child’s ability to be successful in their day to day activities, their mental health is at risk.
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, here are some parenting tips to help everyone manage the challenges that come with ADHD:
Remember, ADHD often comes with a co-diagnosis of anxiety or depression. The frustration of not being able to focus can create these isolating and anxious thoughts. Monitor your child’s emotional wellbeing and support them through any feelings of anxiety or distress that may arise. For support on how to support these additional emotional needs, read our article on supporting your child through anxiety. Still looking for help? Connect with Decade2Connect for the support you need!
