Teenagers mature at different rates. Some children seem to be born as adults, while others don’t act like adults until they are in their thirties. Teenagers with ADHD may mature more slowly than their peers, so the parents of ADHD teens need to be patient and encouraging as their teenager gradually learns basic life skills.

Is your ADHD child about to become a teenager? As with anything you do alongside a person with attention difficulties, make sure to concentrate on one life skill at a time as you help your child make this important transition. In addition, be prepared for stumbling blocks and mistakes while your ADHD teen overcomes social skills deficits ADHD may cause and masters the following tasks of adulthood:

Spending money: Many ADHD children live by the old phrase, “Money burns a hole through his pocket.” As your ADHD child grows into adulthood, he or she must learn about saving money for bills instead of spending money for instant gratification. Teach your ADHD teenager about the dangers of credit card debt, as well as the importance of keeping a savings account, balanced budget, and accurate checkbook. If you need help, find a financial planner or bank employee who can tutor your teen about money management.

Taking care of yourself: Almost all teenagers have trouble finding balance in sleeping, nutrition, and personal hygiene. Remind your ADHD teen about how lack of sleep or poor nutrition can greatly enhance the symptoms of ADHD. Give your teenager an alarm clock so he or she can get used to waking up without your help. Encourage your teen to develop personal routines.

Time management: Everyone can benefit from time management training, but for the ADHD teen, it’s essential. You may have noticed some time management issues as your child learned how to cope with ADHD and homework. People with ADHD may have a poor sense of time and deadlines. Enroll your ADHD teen in time management classes and seminars. Most community colleges offer them.

All in all, prepare yourself for ups and downs as you coax your ADHD teen into an adult life. As you go along, encourage independence in every task so that your ADHD teen develops the self-assurance needed for successful adulthood.