As a parent, how do you support your child with ADHD?

As a parent, how do you support your child with ADHD?

Reading time: 4 minutes.

This article contains general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a physician or practitioner with any questions or concerns.

Busy behavior, difficulty concentrating and becoming easily overstimulated: these are typical challenges in children with ADHD. With a few practical tips, you can create more peace and grip, both for your child and the rest of the family.

Provide structure and predictability

Children with ADHD benefit greatly from structure and predictability in daily life. A clear daily schedule and fixed appointments give them something to hold on to. When there is too much chaos or stress, they feel unsafe and can become overexcited or frustrated. With a few simple adjustments, you can already make a big difference:

1. Establish a set daily schedule for meals, homework, playtime and bedtime. Visualize this schedule with pictures or words so your child can easily follow it.

2. Give all belongings and clothes a fixed place (possibly in labeled storage boxes or closets). This makes tidying up easier and reduces frustration.

3. Provide clear, concise house rules. Discuss these rules with your child and also make sure everyone follows them.

Communicate clearly, listen actively

The way you talk to your child can make a world of difference. Keep your instructions short and have your child repeat them step by step, that way you can be sure that everything has come together. Choose positive language that emphasizes what you do want – for example, say “Walk slowly” instead of “Don’t run.” And take a moment to sit at eye level and make eye contact. This not only increases your child’s chances of listening, but also of feeling truly heard.

Focus on positive reinforcement

Children with ADHD are often told what goes wrong. Therefore, it is extra important to emphasize the (small) successes as well. Give compliments that are concrete: for example, say “I think it’s great that you did your homework so neatly,” rather than just “Well done.” A simple reward system with stickers or points can also be motivating.

How to deal with the frustrations and anger?

The above steps create more peace in the household, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that your child gets frustrated, angry or overwhelmed. So how do you best deal with these feelings?

1. Talk to your child about his or her anger: teach them to step back when they feel overwhelmed. This can be a “quiet corner” or a short break in another room.

2. Regular physical activity is very important for children with ADHD. Provide times when it can expend energy with running, playing, jumping…. This helps regulate emotions and improves concentration.

3. Stay calm and patient yourself, even when things are difficult. Your reaction has a big impact on your child’s reaction.

Useful information

A comprehensive handout from Guidelines Youth Services that explains everything about ADHD in an accessible way. Accessed 17/10/2025.

Care Pathway ADHD reading guide, specifically for parents, with basic information. Accessed 17/10/2025.

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