Helping Your ADHD Child: Strategies for Thriving at Home and School

As a child and teen therapist—and a parent of an ADHD kiddo—I know firsthand how challenging it can be to help kids "do the things," whether that’s following routines, getting out the door on time, or managing emotions. Parenting a child with ADHD comes with unique hurdles, especially when big emotions show up unexpectedly. I recently hosted a parent workshop where we talked about these very challenges and shared strategies for creating structure while still being flexible. In this blog post, I want to share some of the key takeaways from that workshop to help make routines work better for your family and support your child’s mental health.

Parenting a child with ADHD can be both rewarding and challenging. ADHD affects more than just attention—it impacts emotional regulation, time management, and organization. With the right strategies and understanding, parents can help their children thrive. At Reach Counseling, we work with families to build on strengths while accommodating challenges.

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, includes symptoms like:

• Inattention: Difficulty focusing, staying organized, or following through on tasks.

• Hyperactivity: Excessive movement, fidgeting, or talking.

• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, struggling with self-control, and wanting instant rewards.

ADHD comes in three types: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and combined. Every child with ADHD has their own unique combination of symptoms.

ADHD and Co-occurring Conditions

Many children with ADHD also face other challenges, such as:

• Anxiety or depression

• Learning disabilities

• Sleep issues

• Autism or sensory needs

• Emotional dysregulation, such as Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)

Understanding these co-occurring conditions helps parents meet their child’s unique needs.

Helping Your Child Thrive

It’s not about “fixing” your child but about celebrating their strengths and supporting their challenges. Here are some strategies for parents:

1. Build on Strengths
   Every child with ADHD has strengths. Whether it's creativity, problem-solving, or high energy, focus on nurturing these traits.

2. Accommodate Challenges
   Children with ADHD may struggle with time blindness or emotional regulation. Accommodations such as timers, reminders, or sensory breaks help them stay on track.

3. Create ADHD-Friendly Routines

   • Use visuals and simple checklists to keep things clear.

   • Develop routines but keep them flexible.

   • Involve your child by making tasks fun. For example, brushing teeth can become “Minecraft time.”

Tips for Tackling Common ADHD Challenges

1. Difficulty Getting Started:

• Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

• Offer choices on how to begin (e.g., “Do you want to use a pen or a marker?”).

• Use music challenges—see how much can get done before a playlist ends.

• Body Doubling - Some children focus better when someone else is nearby. Try sitting with your child during homework or chores to keep them on task.

2. Emotional Overwhelm:

• Build in regular movement and sensory breaks.

• Try grounding exercises, like body scans or deep breathing.

• Use a feelings check-in (e.g., ask them to rate their emotions on a 1-10 scale).

3. Staying Organized and On Task:

• Use color coding and visual aids for reminders.

• Create distraction-free workspaces but keep them comfortable.

• Use apps or Alexa for gentle reminders.

Treatment Options for ADHD

Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here are some options that can help:

• Medication: Stimulants, non-stimulants, or antidepressants. Talk to your child’s pediatrician or seek consultation from a child psychiatrist.

• Play Therapy and Counseling: For kids struggling emotionally, therapy can help them develop coping skills.

• Support Groups and Group Counseling: These offer great support for both children and parents.

Helpful Resources for Parents

Here are some resources recommended during the workshop:

• How to ADHD (YouTube Channel): Engaging videos about ADHD management

• ADDitude Magazine: A go-to site for tips and community support

• CHADD.org: Resources and advocacy for ADHD families

• NeuroWild (Facebook): Beautiful artwork and infographics on neurodiversity. Also includes graphics on how to explain ADHD to your child.

• Understood.org: An excellent website with many resources for parents, including ideas for ADHD accommodations

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, kids feel anxious because they’re overwhelmed Parenting a child with ADHD requires patience, creativity, and compassion. When parents focus on their child’s strengths and provide structured support, children with ADHD can thrive. If you’re looking for more guidance or a community of support, Reach Counseling is here to help!

If you’re concerned about your child and want to learn more about how therapy can help, feel free to contact us at Reach Counseling. We’re here to support you and your family!