Transitions are challenging for people with ADD and for kids with ADD, all the more so. Moving from one activity to the next seems to require an event planner just to make the complete the transition without tantrums, arguing, and tears.

Here are some tips to make transitions easier, whether these be moving from dinner to homework, from the school year to vacation time, or from one house to another:

• For transition times that are part of your child’s regular schedule, announce the transition in advance and give specifics such as: “This is your last cartoon. I’m going to shut off the TV and you are going to put your PJ’s on.”
• For changes to schedules and upcoming special/different events, don’t just announce them but sit down with your child or teen and explain what will be happening in a reassuring manner.

THEN…

1. Keep reminding, previewing and reassuring
2. If you can be at the event or activity, be sure to be emotionally present for your child or teen.
3. Debrief after the transition. It doesn’t have to be a discussion. Debriefing can be a long hug and some praise (“Thank you for brushing your teeth without arguing.” Or “I know that was hard for you and you did a really good job.”