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Child Welfare Tips for Foster Carers

How to support a foster child with ADHD

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a condition that affects the way a person behaves, feels and thinks.

Around 2-5% of children in the UK have ADHD, and it is often noticed at an early age during a change in circumstances, such as starting school.

The condition can affect the way somebody works on tasks, their ability to manage their time and concentrate. Our Beacon Fostering agency helps to support foster carers when looking after children who have this, and other, conditions. Here is some guidance for providing support.

Signs and symptoms

It’s estimated that children who are in foster care are three times more likely to develop ADHD than their non-care experienced peers, which is often due to the way in which trauma can change a child’s neurology.

There are two categories of diagnosing ADHD: impulsivity and being inattentive. While some people with ADHD fit into both blocks, others will fall into either one or the other. The signs often include difficulty concentrating, changing tasks frequently, being unable to sit still, difficulty in keeping organised and excessive talking and movement.

If you think your foster child has ADHD, chat to your GP, who will refer you to a specialist for assessment.

Everyday life

Your foster child might have to take medication to regulate their behaviour, and you may also attend counselling sessions and be involved in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

At home, communicate clearly to your child and outline your expectations for their behaviour. Visual aids such as timetables will also ensure that your child remains organised and follows instructions, and your school might provide them with an educational plan that highlights how they will support your child.