This post was originally published in December 2022, on Dr. Teh’s Facebook page.
School holiday has started for most students in Malaysia!! However, while holidays are fun for the kids, they could be a tiring or stressful time for parents. So, I thought of creating some quick guidelines for parents, specifically those who have children or adolescents with ADHD tendencies.
1.
Create a routine and stick to it: Children with ADHD often benefit from having a consistent routine. Try to create a daily schedule that includes time for activities such as homework, outdoor play, and quiet time. This can help your child stay focused and organized.
[ See attached for sample ]
[ Make sure that you set very clear guidelines on what activities/ games/ toys are permitted ]
2.
Encourage physical activity: Regular physical activity can help improve attention and concentration in children with ADHD. Encourage your child to engage in physical activities such as sports, dance, or swimming during the school holidays. This can help burn off excess energy and improve their overall mood and behavior.
3.
Limit screen time: Too much screen time can make symptoms of ADHD worse. Try to limit the amount of time your child spends in front of screens during the school holidays. Instead, encourage them to engage in activities that require them to use their imagination and be physically active, such as building a fort, playing a board game, or going for a walk. Hence, family time is absolutely important!
4.
Keep them engaged in learning: Just because it’s the school holidays doesn’t mean that learning should stop. Encourage your child to continue learning and practicing their skills by providing them with educational activities and games. This can help prevent your child from losing some of the knowledge and skills they gained during the school year.
5.
However, remember to KEEP THE FUN GOING 
Play dates: socialization naturally enhances social and communication skills. Play dates can also be a fun and enjoyable experience for your child, allowing them to engage in activities and games that they may not be able to do at home. In addition, play dates can provide a sense of structure and routine, as well as giving you a break from your child-care responsibilities.
6.
Seek support: If your child is struggling with ADHD during the school holidays, don’t hesitate to seek support from their teachers, school counselor, or clinical professionals. These individuals can provide you with additional strategies and resources to help your child manage their symptoms and have a successful and enjoyable break from school.
Hope you all have a delighted holidays with friends and families 
Dr Teh Shin Er 