University of Virginia Health System

KEEP THEM SAFE

Children with ADHD are more active and impulsive than other children their age. Take extra care to keep them safe.

KEEP AN EYE ON THEM: Children with ADHD will need to be watched more than other children their age. Don't expect them to stay out of trouble when on their own.

Provide a safe area for preschoolers to play. Use a gate or Dutch door to limit their play space. Fence in the yard, if possible. Supervise play with pets.

Check on school age children more often. REWARD them for doing what they should be doing and correct them if they're not!

LOCK IT UP: You can't watch them every second. Lighters, matches, medications, guns, ammunition, other weapons, poisons and fuel should be under lock and key -- even if they "know better". They're impulsive--Remember?

NO HELMET - NO BIKE: Insist that your children wear a helmet when they ride a bike--even in the yard. Make it a habit.

KIDS BELONG IN THE BACK: Children should ride in the back seat and always wear a seat belt. Most accidents happen within 5 miles of home. Set a good example -- wear your own!

BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY: Use other safety devices. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed and working in every home. Use window guards, outlet covers and ground fault circuit interrupters.

BE PREPARED: Take a First Aid class. Learn CPR. Make a First Aid kit. Have fire extinguishers on hand.

REMEMBER: Kids with ADHD are immature (often several years behind) in their judgment skills. Do not expect them to be as responsible as other kids their age.