Inside the Mind of an ADHD Child: Insights from Experts

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of children worldwide. It is a condition that affects a child’s ability to concentrate, focus, and control their behavior. It can result in poor academic performance, social problems, and difficulty in completing tasks.

Parents of children with ADHD are often frustrated by their child’s behavior and may struggle to understand what is happening inside their child’s mind. Here are some insights from experts that can help parents gain more understanding about the struggles of ADHD children.

1. Children with ADHD have difficulty regulating their behavior

Dr. Ari Tuckman, PsyD, MBA, a licensed psychologist and author of the book “More Attention, Less Deficit,” explains that many ADHD children struggle with regulating their behavior because they are easily distracted by their surroundings. They may find it hard to resist the temptation to do what feels good in the moment, which can result in impulsivity and poor decision making.

2. ADHD children don’t mean to be disruptive

ADHD children do not intentionally try to be disruptive; they often struggle to filter out distractions and focus on the task at hand. Dr. Mark Bertin, MD, a developmental pediatrician and author of the book “Mindful Parenting for ADHD: A Guide to Cultivating Calm, Reducing Stress, and Helping Children Thrive,” explains that ADHD children have a brain that is wired differently than other children. As a result, they have a much harder time with tasks that seem easy for others their age.

3. ADHD children need structure and routine

Dr. Russell A. Barkley, PhD, a recognized authority on ADHD, explains that children with ADHD tend to benefit from structure and routine because it reduces demands on their working memory, allowing them to focus on one task at a time. Parents can create a consistent daily routine that allows their ADHD child to experience a sense of control and predictability.

4. ADHD children crave positive attention

Many ADHD children crave positive attention and thrive when they receive it. Dr. Thomas E. Brown, PhD, a clinical psychologist and associate director of the Yale Clinic for Attention and Related Disorders, suggests that parents provide positive reinforcement frequently for good behavior. They should praise their child for specific actions they took that required good focus, attention, or self-control.

5. ADHD children can benefit from mindfulness techniques

Mindfulness techniques can help ADHD children learn to manage their emotions and stay focused. Dr. Jeffrey M. Halperin, PhD, a professor of Applied Psychology at Queens College, CUNY recommends that parents teach mindfulness techniques to their ADHD child. These techniques can include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation.

In conclusion, gaining a better understanding of the struggles experienced by ADHD children can help parents provide the appropriate support and guidance they need. By implementing strategies that promote structure, positive reinforcement, and mindfulness, parents can help their child manage symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.