How Do You Parent a Child With ADHD?

Learn important parenting tips for different types of ADHD, effective strategies for managing symptoms, and how to collaborate with other professionals to best support your child.

Parenting a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can often feel overwhelming, as it may bring up unique challenges that require understanding, patience, and adaptability. ADHD affects not only attention and focus but also behavior, emotional regulation, and social skills. However, with the right strategies, resources, and support systems, managing ADHD symptoms and building a positive environment is entirely possible. Here are some essential ADHD parenting tips that help to improve an ADHD child’s behavior, navigate ADHD symptoms, and support healthy growth.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a child’s brain functions in terms of focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation. It results in difficulties maintaining attention, controlling impulses, and organizing thoughts or tasks, which can interfere with daily activities and interactions. This disorder typically manifests as early childhood ADHD but can extend into adolescence and adulthood. ADHD can be broken down into three main types:

• Inattentive type, which is marked by difficulty maintaining attention, forgetfulness, and distractibility
• Hyperactive-impulsive type, which is haracterized by excessive movement, impulsive actions, and difficulty staying still or quiet
• Combined type, which is a  mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms

Common ADHD behaviors

Parenting a child with ADHD presents challenges that differ from those of a child without developmental disabilities, requiring unique parenting skills targeted at assisting the child’s emotional dysregulation. Here are some common childhood ADHD behaviors. 

• Difficulty maintaining focus on tasks or activities
• Easily distracted by the environment
• Interrupting conversations or activities
• Making snap decisions without considering consequences
• Excessive physical movement or restlessness
• Difficulty staying seated or sitting still in expected situations
• Frequently fidgets or moves around unnecessarily
• Trouble engaging in quiet or relaxing activities
• Disruptive energy levels in social or academic settings

How parents can help children manage ADHD symptoms 

Helping children manage ADHD symptoms involves creating a structured, supportive environment, reinforcing positive behaviors, and addressing challenges with consistent strategies. The following approaches can help manage symptoms effectively.

1. Create structure and routine

Children with ADHD thrive in structured environments, where predictable routines help reduce anxiety and improve focus. Establishing consistent schedules for meals, schoolwork, and sleep provides clear expectations, helping a child feel more secure. Visual aids like checklists or calendars can further support organization, making it easier for a child to stay on track and know what to expect. This structure not only promotes a sense of stability but also enhances a child’s ability to manage tasks and maintain focus. 

2. Practice positive parenting

Positive parenting focuses on reinforcing good behavior rather than punishing negative behavior, like praising a child for following through on tasks or behaving well in a given situation. Specific praise, such as for finishing their homework, reinforces positive actions and motivates children to repeat them. A reward system can also be an effective tool, providing tangible incentives for positive behavior, such as extra screen time or a favorite treat. It can create an additional motivator for a child to stay focused, follow through on tasks, and consistently behave well.

3. Partake in behavior therapy and parent training

Behavioral therapy is a proven method for helping children with ADHD develop the skills they need to manage their behavior. In this form of therapy, children learn to recognize and change problematic behaviors through a combination of reinforcement and teaching new skills. This approach helps children become more aware of their actions and the consequences of their behavior.

Parent training is also an essential component of managing ADHD, as it teaches parenting practices for handling disruptive behaviors, setting clear expectations, and supporting a child’s emotional needs. With the right training, parents can be better equipped to deal with challenges calmly and effectively, reducing stress for both them and their child.

4. Focus on executive functioning

Executive function refers to the cognitive processes that help people plan, organize, and follow through on tasks. Children with ADHD often struggle with these skills, which can make it difficult to stay organized and complete tasks efficiently. Teaching children with ADHD organizational skills, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps, using visual reminders, or setting timers for specific activities, can improve their ability to focus.

Additionally, teaching self-regulation strategies, such as deep breathing or taking a break when feeling overwhelmed, can help children manage impulsivity and emotional responses.

5. Collaborate with teachers and professionals

Effective ADHD parenting requires collaboration with others, especially when it comes to school. Teachers and school counselors can play a vital role in supporting the learning and behavioral needs of a child or young adult. By working together, parents and teachers can ensure that a child receives the accommodations they need in the classroom, whether that’s extra time on tests, a quiet space for concentration, or modified assignments.

Family therapy can also be a helpful resource, helping everyone in the household, including a non ADHD partner, understand how to best support the ADHD child and navigate challenges together. It provides a space for open communication, helping family members share concerns and develop strategies for managing challenges together. This approach can improve family dynamics, reduce frustration, and foster a more supportive environment for both the child and the family as a whole.  

When to consider ADHD medication

For some children with ADHD that are unable to be managed through parenting practices alone, medication can be an important part of the treatment plan. While not always necessary, medication can be especially beneficial for children whose symptoms are severe or interfere with daily functioning, making it essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the medication and dosage for a child. When combined with behavior therapy and other interventions, medication can lead to significant improvements in managing ADHD symptoms. 

Co-occurring mental health disorders 

Many children with ADHD also face co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) also has a high comorbidity with ADHD. The difficulties of managing ADHD symptoms – like impulsivity and inattention – can be emotionally draining, often leading to frustration, feelings of inadequacy, or social challenges. It’s important to create a supportive environment where a child feels safe to express their emotions without feeling misunderstood or criticized, intensifying their own struggles. 

Addressing both ADHD and any co-occurring mental health concerns can significantly improve a child’s overall well-being and help them manage their symptoms more effectively. Encouraging open communication with a child, like having regular check-ins about their emotional well-being, can help catch any potential issues early and provide the support they need. Additionally, practicing emotional regulation techniques, such as mindfulness or journaling, can help children better handle frustration and anger.

How Charlie Health can help

If you or a loved one are struggling with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for dealing with serious mental health conditions, including ADHD. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With treatment, managing your mental health is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.