As a child psychiatrist, I meet many families who come in worried about their child’s behavior,
school struggles, or big emotions. One of the most common concerns I see is ADHD, or
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. If you think your child may have ADHD, you’re not
alone—and there’s help.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain-based condition that affects a child’s ability to pay attention, sit still, and
control impulses. It’s not a bad behavior or a sign of bad parenting. It’s just how some children’s
brains are wired.
There are three main types of ADHD:
- Inattentive type – Trouble focusing, forgetful, easily distracted.
- Hyperactive-impulsive type – Always on the go, fidgety, blurts things out.
- Combined type – A mix of both.
Signs You Might Notice
Some common signs of ADHD in kids include:
Difficulty sitting still, especially in quiet places.
Trouble finishing tasks (like homework or chores)
Forgetting or losing things often
Talking a lot or interrupting others
Struggling to follow instructions.
Every child is different, and not every active or daydreamy child has ADHD. That’s why getting
a professional evaluation is important.
How Is ADHD Diagnosed?
Diagnosing ADHD isn’t done with a blood test or brain scan. Instead, we:
Talk to parents and teachers.
Observe the child’s behavior.
Use questionnaires or checklists.
We look at how long the behaviors have been happening, where they happen (at home, school, or
both), and how much they affect the child’s life.
What Helps?
ADHD is treatable. Many kids with ADHD grow up to be successful, happy adults—with the
right support. Common treatments include:
Behavioral therapy – Helps kids learn tools to manage emotions and actions.
Parent training – Teaches parents how to respond calmly and effectively.
School support – Like IEPs, 504 plans, or classroom strategies
Medication – Safe and effective for many kids, often used along with therapy.
The goal is to help your child thrive, not to “fix” them. Kids with ADHD often have amazing
creativity, energy, and outside-the-box thinking. With the right help, those strengths shine.
How You Can Help as a Parent
Be patient—your child is not doing this on purpose.
Keep routines clear and simple.
Praise effort, not just success.
Break big tasks into small steps.
Stay in touch with teachers and therapists.
And most of all, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’re doing your best—and your child needs
your love, not perfection.
If you have questions about your child’s behavior, talk to your pediatrician or a child mental
health professional. You’re not alone on this journey, and with the right support, things can get
better.
Let’s help our kids grow into the amazing people they are meant to be.
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