PAP 007: 10 Easy Strategies to Build Self-Esteem in Kids with ADHD, with Jackie Flynn

It's no secret that kids with ADHD (and autism) struggle immensely with self-esteem. They're bumping around in a world of constant messages that they're different, broken, incapable... As parents of kids with ADHD, a big part of our job is to boost our kids' confidence and self-esteem.

In this episode of the Parenting ADHD Podcast, I talk with therapist Jackie Flynn about simple ways to build our children's self-esteem. These 10 strategies are simple to implement in our chaotic lives, yet powerfully effective. Enjoy!

 



 
Resources in this Episode
(Yes, some of these are affiliate links.)
*Be the thermostat, not the thermometer – respond rather than react.

*Focus on the donut, not the hole.

 

10 Strategies to Build Self-Esteem in Kids with ADHD:

Looking in your child’s eyes — says “I matter”
Be a good model and label emotions
Have a good fun to work ratio
Spend present time with your child each day
Unconditional acceptance (every when it’s hard)
The 20-second hug
Give your child permission to be human
Set the stage for healthy attachment
Recognize accomplishments, even the small stuff (not praise)
Smile at first sight (Jackie’s favorite)

Trauma creates hyper-vigilance: EMDR therapy, mindfulness, and play therapy are very effective for trauma.

 

Books: 

The Whole Brain Child book

Childhood Disrupted

The Whole Parent

 
My Guest in this Episode
Jackie Flynn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Education Specialist, Registered Play Therapist, Certified Hypnotherapist, and a Certified School Counselor. Jackie helps children and their families at her thriving Play Therapy and Expressive Arts private practice in Central Florida. She also helps parents persevere through the challenges of parenthood through her podcast, Parenting in the Rain: Insights from the Experts and her online business at Jackie Flynn Consulting, where she offers Parent Coaching, Consulting Services, and Online Training.

Where to find Jackie:

Podcast: Parenting in the Rain

Podcast: Play Therapy Community

Parenting in the Rain Group: Facebook

Jackie Flynn Host of Play Therapy: Facebook

Counselinginbrevard.com

Counseling in Brevard: Facebook

Jackie Flynn Consulting

Jackie on Twitter

 
Thanks for joining me!
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