Supporting a child with ADHD can feel overwhelming, especially when parents don’t know where to begin. ADHD affects not only a child’s ability to focus and learn but also their self-esteem and relationships. Without early support, small challenges can grow into bigger struggles.
Tony Bellezza and Cassi Bellezza faced this reality when their son Anthony was diagnosed with ADHD and dysgraphia. Like many parents, they had to figure out how to support his needs while managing school challenges and emotional ups and downs.
Instead of feeling defeated, they took action. They created Anthony’s Way -The Road to Kindness Foundation to help families in similar situations by offering practical tools and a supportive community.
Their nonprofit provides ADHD coaching, tutoring, and social skills programs to help children gain confidence and thrive. They also host community events to raise awareness and spread kindness.
In this article, we will share the valuable lessons Tony and Cassie have learned about raising and supporting a child with ADHD. We’ll learn why early diagnosis matters, how to build your child’s confidence, and why creating a supportive environment at home and school is essential.
Their story shows that with understanding, patience, and the right support, children with ADHD can overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Supporting a Child with ADHD
Raising a child with ADHD can feel overwhelming without clear guidance. Anthony’s parents faced this challenge and turned their experience into a way to support other families.
When Anthony started preschool, his parents noticed something different. Unlike his older siblings, he struggled with basics like the alphabet and counting.
Teachers often reassured them, saying, “He’ll catch up.” However, Anthony was falling behind by second grade, and his frustrations grew.
His teacher asked for a meeting and showed them a crumpled paper Anthony had thrown away. On the back, he had drawn a sad face and written, “I hate me.” This moment made it clear—Anthony wouldn’t “grow out of it.” His parents knew he needed more help.
Seeking Diagnosis and Treatment
Anthony’s parents acted quickly. They got a pediatrician and psychiatrist involved to confirm the ADHD diagnosis. Along with ADHD, Anthony was diagnosed with dysgraphia, making writing and learning even harder.
The discussion about medication was difficult. Anthony’s father was hesitant at first. However, their pediatrician explained that untreated ADHD could lead to self-medicating later in life.
After careful consideration, they agreed on a treatment plan that included medication. It took some adjustments, but they found the right approach that worked for Anthony.
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Combating Bullying and Building Confidence
Anthony’s challenges didn’t end with academics. His smaller size and slower learning pace made him a target for bullies. His parents made important changes:
- His father changed jobs to be home more.
- They enrolled Anthony in martial arts to build confidence.
By age 12, Anthony earned his black belt. Martial arts gave him confidence and taught him resilience. He began standing up for himself and others.
Finding Friendships and Becoming a Leader
Despite the bullying, Anthony stayed kind and focused on helping others. When no one sat with him on the bus, he convinced his friends to join the ski club so he wouldn’t sit alone.
Over time, he created a strong group of friends. He also made sure other kids felt included and safe. His kindness inspired those around him.
Key Lessons for Parents for Supporting a Child with ADHD
- Get an early diagnosis and a strong support team.
- Encourage activities that boost confidence, like sports or martial arts.
- Help your child build friendships and create a supportive environment.
Supporting a Child with ADHD Through Advocacy, Interests, and Family Connection
Anthony’s parents discovered that pursuing his interests boosted his confidence and happiness. He excelled in martial arts, earning his black belt by age 12. Martial arts helped him develop discipline and a sense of achievement.
He also loved singing but kept this passion private. At 14, he recorded a heartfelt song for his mother’s birthday, showing his talent and their close bond. Supporting these interests gave Anthony a sense of purpose and pride.
Advocating for School Success
Anthony’s parents worked closely with his teachers to ensure he received the support he needed in school. They set up 504-plan outlining accommodations to help him succeed.
Steps They Took:
- Meeting teachers yearly: They discussed his needs and strategies to support him in the classroom.
- Proactively introducing Anthony to teachers: His mother shared details about him before classes began, fostering understanding.
- Hiring a specialized tutor: They found a retired teacher who understood ADHD and helped Anthony with his studies.
Over time, Anthony began advocating for himself. When teachers treated him unfairly, he stood up for his rights. This confidence in speaking up prepared him for future challenges.
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Encouraging Independence
Anthony showed determination in his learning. He insisted on completing assignments independently, even when it was difficult. He believed in earning grades based on his efforts, not someone else’s help.
In his senior year, Anthony explored his interest in cars. He and his dad worked together to restore a 1989 BMW. This hands-on project strengthened their bond and gave Anthony a sense of accomplishment.
Transforming Tragedy into Purpose
After Anthony’s passing, his parents channeled their grief into helping other families. They founded a nonprofit to provide resources for children with ADHD.
They partnered with experts, including ADHD coaches and tutors, to create a comprehensive support system.
Over 15 months, their organization assisted 20 families. Their goal is to help children between ages 6 and 17 develop the skills and confidence to thrive.
Supporting a Child with ADHD by Building Confidence and Skills
Supporting children with ADHD involves more than managing symptoms. It’s about helping them grow, learn, and build confidence.
Children with ADHD often get labeled as “troublemakers” because of their impulsiveness or frustration. These early experiences can harm their confidence. Starting support early helps children develop healthier ways to manage challenges and build their strengths.
A Holistic Approach for Supporting a Child with ADHD
The program built in Anthony’s honor focuses on more than sharing resources—it provides direct, practical support for children and their families.
Key Services:
- ADHD Coaching: Helps children manage their emotions, stay focused, and build self-control.
- Educational Advocacy: Works with schools to ensure children get necessary learning accommodations.
- Tutoring with Experienced Teachers: Offers specialized help in math, English, and other subjects with teachers who understand ADHD.
- Nutrition Support: Guides healthy eating to improve focus, energy, and mood.
- Fitness Programs: Encourages physical activity to boost confidence and improve concentration.
- Social Skills Training: Uses programs like Dale Carnegie to help teens build communication and leadership skills.
- Academic Advising: Helps children prepare for tests and find career paths that match their interests.
This structured approach helps children succeed both in and outside of school.
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ALT Text: Supporting a Child with ADHD by Building Confidence and Skills
Managing Social Media and Gaming Challenges
Social media and gaming can negatively affect children with ADHD, leading to poor sleep and increased anxiety. The program’s social skills training teaches healthy ways to build friendships and balance screen time.
Supporting a Child with ADHD Beyond One Community
The program began in North Carolina schools but offers referral services nationwide. The goal is to reach even more families through pilots focused on younger children (ages 6–10) and teens (ages 13–17).
A communication system helps track each child’s progress using a simple traffic light system:
- Green: Everything is going well.
- Yellow: Minor concerns that need attention.
- Red: Serious issues, like bullying or signs of distress.
This system helps identify and address problems early. Many families cannot afford the care their children need. So, the program raises funds and works with independent experts to make services more affordable and accessible.
Building a Support Network for Supporting a Child with ADHD
Many families struggle to understand the steps needed to support their child effectively, especially when faced with financial and emotional challenges.
Providing comprehensive ADHD care can cost up to $20,000 per child each year. To make these services more accessible, the program organizes fundraising and awareness events:
- Live Donation Event: Each year, on February 13 (Anthony’s birthday), expert talks on ADHD strategies and family support will be held.
- Walk a Mile for Kindness: A nationwide event that encourages teams and individuals to walk while spreading kindness. Participants can walk anywhere and share their experiences. Events at key locations include music, activities, and ways to connect with others.
The goal is to grow participation, involve more schools and organizations, and create a stronger support network.
How Families and Communities Can Get Involved
Families can initiate local walks by partnering with schools, churches, or youth groups.
Registration is available through the program’s website. During the event, participants are encouraged to share stories, photos, and examples of kind acts.
Supporting Sensitive Children
Many children with ADHD, or even those without a diagnosis, feel emotions deeply and may struggle with self-esteem. Offering emotional support early can help them handle the challenges.
Advice for Parents:
- Trust Your Intuition: If something feels off, seek help immediately instead of waiting.
- Stay Connected: Both parents should work together to support their child, even if they don’t always agree.
- Avoid Over-Discipline: Punishment alone cannot address ADHD behaviors. Often, children already feel bad about their mistakes.
- Reassure and Encourage: A hug or kind words can go a long way during difficult times.
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ALT Text: Building a Support Network for Supporting a Child with ADHD
Breaking Misconceptions About Supporting a Child with ADHD
Some people downplay ADHD, not realizing its impact on children and their families. Without proper support, ADHD can strain relationships and create long-term challenges.
Advocacy and education are essential to changing these misconceptions and ensuring families receive the help they need.
Conclusion
Supporting a child with ADHD means more than managing their behavior. It involves helping them grow, build confidence, and thrive.
Early support ensures children can overcome challenges and develop their strengths. Activities like martial arts, social skills training, and coaching can boost self-esteem and independence.
Families play a crucial role by staying connected, offering encouragement, and working together to support their child’s needs. Programs that provide practical tools and a structured approach make a significant difference for children and parents.
Community involvement also helps spread awareness and create a support system for families. Events like walks and donation drives raise funds and inspire acts of kindness that benefit children with ADHD.
By offering understanding and tools for growth, we can create a brighter future for children with ADHD and their families. For more information and ways to get involved, visit https://www.anthonysroadtokindness.com/.
FAQs
Is medication always necessary for supporting a child with ADHD?
No. While some children may benefit from medication, others thrive with therapy, structured routines, and ADHD coaching. A healthcare provider can guide you on the best plan for your child.
How can I manage emotional outbursts while supporting a child with ADHD?
Stay calm and show empathy. Let them express their emotions and guide them toward calming activities like breathing exercises or quiet time.
How do routines help when supporting a child with ADHD?
Simple, consistent routines make transitions smoother and tasks easier to manage. Create visual schedules for mornings, homework time, and bedtime to keep them organized and on track.
How do I limit screen time while supporting a child with ADHD?
Set clear time limits for screen use and provide fun alternatives like outdoor games, puzzles, or creative projects. Encourage regular screen-free breaks to maintain focus and balance.