How parents can help children with ADHD thrive in friendships

Mikami researches peer relationships, specifically focusing on children with ADHD. Additionally, she developed a parental friendship coaching model where parents of elementary school-age kids can learn to support their child in making friends. Participants meet with mental health professionals and other parents of kids with ADHD for 10 sessions over several weeks to practice strategies to improve their child's social behavior. A key goal for many parents who use this approach is to help their child have successful playdates and - ideally - deepen their friendships. "Many parents, especially parents of kids with ADHD, have had the experience where they tell their child something - and maybe it's even really good advice - but it's like the brick wall goes up. The child gets very defensive," said Mikami. At a family game night, for example, parents may help their child improve social skills by incorporating breaks if the child gets worked up or praising the child when they are able to stay calm. Lastly, the PFC model helps parents learn how to structure successful playdates for their child. A parent of a child with ADHD may initially choose to host playdates because they have more control over the environment than if their child is a guest at a peer's house.

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