ADHD in Children: How to Help Your Child Thrive

Parents, if you’re reading this, you likely have a child diagnosed or suspected of having ADHD. You may be here because you’ve noticed your child’s struggle to sit still, stay focused, or both, and you’re probably feeling overwhelmed.

If your child is among the 7 million children in the U.S. who have ADHD, please know they can benefit from decades of research into this condition and its treatment. Despite the challenges of living with ADHD, many children are thriving and succeeding because they’ve received the right support from experienced professionals, including a child psychologist for ADHD.

In this guide, I explain what ADHD in children looks like across different age groups and share ADHD parenting tips to help your child thrive at home, in school, and beyond.

Signs of ADHD in Children by Age Group

ADHD (formerly known as ADD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning that it is present from birth and affects how the brain functions. While environmental factors may play a role in its development, genetics is the biggest contributor. In fact, if your child has ADHD, there’s a strong chance that you or their other parent does as well.

ADHD presents differently depending on a child’s age:

Preschoolers

For young children, ADHD often appears as difficulty sitting still and following directions. They may seem to have an endless supply of energy, struggle with bedtime, or frequently interrupt conversations. In school settings, impulsivity can lead to challenges, such as running out of the classroom, talking during quiet times, and having big reactions to minor frustrations. Repeated reprimands can lead to self-esteem issues, making them feel like they’re “bad.”

Elementary-Age Kids

As classroom expectations increase, difficulty focusing becomes more apparent. Children with ADHD may talk excessively, call out answers before being called on, or struggle to complete homework. Parents often find themselves constantly reminding their child to finish tasks, leading to frustration. At this stage, kids may start internalizing negative messages, believing they are “lazy” or “not smart enough.”

Teens

Hyperactivity may decrease, but impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors can increase. Teens with ADHD may make rash decisions without considering the consequences. As school demands grow—more homework, multiple teachers, and increased independence—many teens fall behind. Procrastination, disorganization, and declining self-esteem often become major challenges.

It’s important to remember that ADHD in children manifests uniquely based on a child’s strengths, weaknesses, and the level of support they receive.

ADHD & Emotional Regulation

One of the most common yet overlooked signs of ADHD is difficulty regulating emotions. Many parents tell me their child has “big feelings” that nobody seems to understand. A sweet and polite child may suddenly explode in frustration, then later feel remorseful but unable to explain why they reacted that way.

Why does this happen? Children with ADHD experience emotions more intensely and often struggle to engage coping skills when needed.

Additionally, living with ADHD can be frustrating. Many children with ADHD face frequent scolding, detentions, or even suspensions, despite trying their best. They may work just as hard as their peers but take twice as long to complete assignments. Socially, impulsivity and forgetfulness can make friendships difficult. As a result, untreated ADHD often leads to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

ADHD Parenting Tips: How to Support Your Child

As overwhelming as ADHD may feel, there are many ADHD parenting tips that can make life easier for both you and your child:

1. Create Structure & Routine
   Children with ADHD thrive on predictability. Establishing clear daily and weekly schedules helps them remember their responsibilities and reduces frustration. Even during school breaks or vacations, maintaining a routine prevents chaos.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
   ADHD can cause motivation deficits, making it hard for kids to start or complete tasks. Rewards and incentives (e.g., sticker charts, extra playtime) help reinforce positive behaviors and encourage task completion. This is not bribing—it’s a way to build motivation for non-preferred activities like homework or chores.
3. Support Emotional Regulation
   Help your child identify emotions early before they escalate. Saying, “I notice you’re starting to get frustrated,” can help them recognize their feelings and use coping strategies like deep breathing or a calm-down corner.
4. Advocate for School Accommodations
   Children with ADHD often benefit from school-based support, such as 504 Plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). These plans can provide extended test-taking time, preferential seating, or additional organizational support, ensuring your child has the same opportunities as their peers.

Therapy & ADHD Treatment Options

If you’re looking for professional help, a child psychologist for ADHD can provide evidence-based treatments to address both behavioral and emotional challenges. Some of the most effective therapies include:

Behavior Therapy (For Younger Children)

Considered the first-line treatment, behavior therapy helps parents manage their child’s behavior through Parent Management Training, Behavior Management Training, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is highly effective for emotional regulation in children and teens. It teaches kids to identify triggers, recognize emotions, and develop coping skills. CBT also helps reframe negative self-perceptions, improving confidence and resilience.

ADHD Medication

While therapy addresses behavioral and emotional challenges, medication is the only treatment that directly improves focus and impulse control. Many parents hesitate to try medication, but decades of research show that the benefits outweigh potential risks for most children.

You can learn more about ADHD therapy options here.

Take the First Step Toward Support

I hope this guide has reassured you that ADHD in children is manageable with the right support. The earlier you take action, the sooner your child—and your family—can navigate ADHD with confidence.

If you live in NYC and are ready to seek professional support or suspect your child has ADHD but aren’t sure, schedule a free consultation with me.