Impulse Control Strategies

Your child acts before thinking: blurts out, grabs, runs off, or interrupts constantly

Steps

  1. Teach the 'Stop-Think-Act' sequence using a visual traffic light
  2. Practice the 'brain brake': clench fists, count to 3, then decide
  3. Use a 'hands up' signal in class so they can signal without blurting
  4. Role-play scenarios: 'What could you do INSTEAD of grabbing?'
  5. Praise every moment of impulse control you notice: 'You waited your turn!'

What you need

Traffic light visual, role play time, consistent praise

Why it works

Impulse control is a developmental skill that matures later in children with ADHD and Tourette's. Their brains don't have the same brake mechanism that allows neurotypical children to pause before acting. External tools like traffic light visuals create an artificial pause that the brain can't yet generate on its own.

Age guidance

Most relevant from age 4 onwards. Expect impulse control to develop 2-3 years behind neurotypical peers. This is neurology, not behaviour.

Real-world example

A parent taught their child to clench their fists and count to 3 before responding. It didn't work every time, but when their child stopped themselves from grabbing a toy and said 'I used my brain brake!', the pride on their face was worth every practice session.

Troubleshooting

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