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The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
Matthew Ryan, MA, LPC, NCC
ADD/ADHD Children and Teens Benefit From "Structured" Summer
Ryan Counseling, PLLC
. https://www.ryancounseling.com/

ADD/ADHD Children and Teens Benefit From "Structured" Summer

Summer break from middle school, high school or college is a very exciting time, but can be very detrimental to adolescents and young adults with ADD/ADHD.

Of course most kids would prefer “hanging out” with their friends all day long rather than attend structured, supervised activities. But research indicates that children and adolescents who are not involved in a structured activity such as sports, summer camps, volunteering, or work are more likely to engage in negative behavior and substance use.

The relationship between substance abuse and ADHD is well-documented. On a recent drug use survey completed by Fairfax County Public School students, close to 40% of respondents admitted to frequent drug and alcohol use (more than 2x per week) and cited 'boredom' and 'lack of activities' to participate in as primary triggers.

Working parents have an uphill battle to ensure enough summer oversight but reducing free time needs to be a priority, especially for older teens even though they can technically care for themselves.

A well structured summer break offers many benefits a chance to meet new people, explore new things, participate in new activities, increase mastery of an existing interest, travel and enhance experiential learning. The goal(s) increased skills, enhanced self-confidence and self-awareness.

Align Interests and Activities

Summer activities must be aligned with a child's interests so that it can be predictable, stimulating, and long-lasting. If a child pursues their interests daily, they are more likely to engage in positive behaviors such as socialization, problem solving, and physical activities. Researching and deciding upon suitable summer activities together is the key to reducing resistance and increasing the odds of a positive experience.

Notably, ADD/ADHD college students should be using their summer break constructively by getting jobs or internships aligned with their majors, increasing work or life skills or volunteering.

Summer camp is a popular option for tweens and teens. If finances are an issue, scholarships to county camps may be available. If summer camps are not an option, community centers, sports teams, volunteer opportunities and summer jobs are great alternatives.

Connect With Other Parents

If none of these resources work for your family, parents need to connect with other parents in the community. Plan days for your child to spend time at a friend's house with proper supervision during work hours.

So sit down with your kids, determine their interests, and what they would like to accomplish this summer. Be prepared to face some opposition, but don't back down. When given some freedom of choice, your child will be more likely than not to take an active role in planning their summer. And, they will hopefully make memories, grow and learn-a “win-win” for everyone.

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