ADHD in children: Symptoms, causes, and how to treat it
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Explore the complexities of ADHD in children, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Plus, get tips for parents on how to navigate ADHD.
Are you raising or caring for a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD? If so, then it shouldn’t come as news to you that their day-to-day routines and behaviors don’t always look like those of other children.
It’s not just that they’re more energetic or more easily distracted than other kids their age, ADHD is a condition that affects how their brain develops and functions. It means kids with ADHD may have a hard time sitting still, staying focused on what they’re doing, or thinking before they act. And this can affect their experiences at school, home, and with friends.
ADHD is pretty common, but it’s often misunderstood. It’s important to remember that what you’re seeing isn’t bad behavior or a lack of discipline, it’s a condition that needs understanding and support, just like any other health issue would. Keep reading to learn more, including how you can help any kids with ADHD in your life.
What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
ADHD is a neurological condition that affects how children focus, move, and respond to the world around them. For kids with ADHD, paying attention, sitting still, or holding back some of their impulses can feel much harder than it does for others.
For example, if they get absorbed in a book when they’re supposed to be getting ready for school, it can be frustrating for you as a parent to get them to transition to a new task. While you’re taking those calming breaths, keep in mind that your child isn’t being defiant for the sake of it. They likely couldn’t help themselves, as it’s the way their brain is wired.
You might be surprised to know that ADHD is one of the most common mental health conditions in children. It’s estimated that about 5-10% of kids have ADHD, and it tends to show up before age 12, with signs sometimes appearing as early as preschool. Every child with ADHD is unique, but most experience it through a mix of three main types of symptoms:
Inattention
Hyperactivity
Impulsivity
A child with ADHD might struggle with things that seem simple, like following a straightforward request to get dressed for a cold day or getting their homework done. For them, these everyday activities take extra mental focus and patience, which can make them more tiring. And that can lead to feelings of frustration or anxiety, both for your child and the whole family.
The impact of ADHD also changes as kids grow up. For example, a young child might struggle to sit still, but an older child or teenager might find it hard to plan when to do an assignment and hand it in on time, even if they’re actually very capable at the tasks set. Some kids outgrow certain symptoms as they mature, but for others, ADHD can continue into adolescence and adulthood.
What are the causes of ADHD in children?
The exact cause of ADHD isn’t fully understood. Research shows that a complex mix of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors can increase the risk, but they don’t guarantee a child will develop ADHD.
Scientists are only just beginning to understand ADHD and its origins. But they are able to identify some key factors that may play a role in causing ADHD:
Genetics: ADHD often runs in families, suggesting a genetic link. If a parent or sibling has ADHD, a child may be more likely to have it too.
Brain structure and function: Children with ADHD may have slight differences in certain areas of the brain, especially those that control attention, behavior, and decision-making.
Premature birth or low birth weight: Babies born prematurely or at a low birth weight have a higher risk of developing ADHD.
Exposure to environmental toxins: Lead exposure, which might be found in old paint or pipes, is linked to a higher risk of ADHD.
Maternal health during pregnancy: Mothers who smoke, drink alcohol, or experience high levels of stress during pregnancy may have a higher chance of having a child with ADHD.
3 symptoms of ADHD in children
Every child with ADHD is unique, as is every child with a neurotypical brain. That means your child’s ADHD symptoms might look different from a friend who also has ADHD. That said, they generally fall into three categories:
1. Inattention
Trouble focusing on tasks, even when activities seem enjoyable
Frequently making careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities
Often losing things needed for tasks, like toys, school supplies, or books
Seeming not to listen when spoken to, even without obvious distraction
Struggling with organizing tasks and time
2. Hyperactivity
Constantly moving, such as fidgeting, tapping hands or feet, or squirming
Trouble staying seated when it’s expected, like during meals or in school
Often climbing or having increased energy in situations where it’s inappropriate
Talking excessively or having difficulty with quiet activities
3. Impulsivity
Frequently interrupting conversations, games, or activities
Acting without thinking about the consequences (e.g., blurting out answers or rushing through tasks)
Struggling to wait for their turn, whether in games or other activities
How parents can support a child with ADHD
Being a parent isn’t easy, and if you’re raising a child with ADHD you’ll need a lot of compassion and flexibility. It can be both rewarding and challenging, and you may feel overwhelmed at times, especially when typical parenting strategies don’t seem to work. Kids with ADHD need extra patience, understanding, and structure to help them feel confident and supported so they can develop the skills they’ll need in life, stay motivated, and build a positive sense of self.
Every child with ADHD has their own unique way of thriving, and with consistent support, they can feel successful and valued just as they are. Here are some ways you can support your child with ADHD to feel happy and fulfilled.
Create a structured and predictable environment for your child
Children with ADHD often feel more secure and focused when they have a clear routine with consistent times for meals, homework, play, and bedtime. It can help you reduce stress and improve your child’s ability to manage their time and expectations.
Set up a daily routine: Try to keep wake-up, mealtime, homework, and evening schedules (here are 10 tips for bedtime routines) as consistent as possible, even on weekends. Use visual aids, like charts or calendars, to help your child keep track of what’s coming up next.
Keep transitions smooth: Changing from one activity to another can be hard for kids with ADHD. Give them a warning that it’ll soon be time to switch activities, so they have five or 10 minutes to prepare. You can use a timer to remind them that a change is coming, too.
Use calming techniques: Help your child find space and peace in their mind with breathing or grounding exercises. For some ideas, check out our six practices to help calm an ADHD mind.
Break down tasks into manageable steps that your child can follow easily
Large tasks, like homework or cleaning a room, can feel overwhelming for kids with ADHD, especially if they don’t know where to start. Breaking big tasks into smaller, simpler steps can make them feel more doable.
Provide step-by-step instructions: Instead of saying, “Clean your room,” try dividing it into parts they can visualize more easily. Try, “First, put your toys in the basket. Next, put dirty clothes in the hamper.” Smaller steps feel more achievable, and give your child clear direction on what to do first. For more ideas on helping them stay focused, try our eight tips to improve concentration.
Use checklists: A simple checklist, maybe with pictures, can help kids stay on task and feel a sense of accomplishment as they check off each item. This also helps them practice organization skills.
Encourage movement so they can let off steam
Exercise is beneficial for all kids but can be especially helpful for children with ADHD, because movement helps release their built-up energy. Releasing this excess energy can improve their focus and reduce restlessness in whatever comes next in their day. Try including regular breaks in their routine, especially during homework or tasks that require a lot of concentration.
Add in movement breaks: Encourage short breaks that involve physical movement, like a quick walk to the local park, stretching, shooting a few hoops, or dancing to a favorite song. This can help refresh your child’s focus before they return to a more structured task.
Build in regular exercise: Sports, dance, or martial arts are great for children with ADHD because they often require focus, coordination, and structure. When they find an activity they enjoy, it can also help build their confidence and give them a positive outlet for their energy.
💙 Help your child release their pent-up energy through the Working Out The Wiggles session with Mel Mah.
Use positive reinforcement and praise to build your child’s self confidence
When a child is being inattentive, impulsive, or hyperactive, it can be frustrating for parents, teachers, and other leaders, especially if the other children around them seem to conform more easily. Children with ADHD may be reprimanded or punished for these traits, even though it’s not their fault. This can affect their self-esteem. Making an effort to notice and celebrate their successes and positive behaviors can help balance this and make them feel valued and capable.
Praise effort, not just results: Recognize their effort to follow directions, stay on task, or complete a chore, even if it’s not perfect. Saying things like, “I noticed how hard you worked on that,” shows appreciation for their effort and encourages them to keep trying.
Set up a reward system: A simple reward system, like a sticker chart or token jar, can motivate your child to complete tasks and follow routines. Rewards don’t need to be big. They can be things like earning extra screen time, choosing a family activity, or having a small treat after dinner.
Work closely with your child’s teachers and caregivers
Children with ADHD often need additional support at school, because having the ability to focus, being organized, and sitting still are part of daily life in class. Staying in close communication with teachers, school counselors, and other caregivers can help your child feel understood and supported, because it helps keep things more consistent.
Request classroom accommodations: Many schools offer support plans, such as 504 plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), which can provide extra help like extended test time, breaks, or seating adjustments. Talk with your school about creating a plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Share effective strategies: If certain techniques work well at home, let teachers and caregivers know what they are. You can take home successful strategies from the classroom too, as experienced teachers often have great suggestions. Small adjustments, like using fidget tools or having extra time for assignments, can make a big difference to your child.
Build self-care and patience into your routine to support your child
Parenting a child with ADHD can be demanding, so although it’s easy for parents to make their own self-care the bottom of the priority list, taking time to recharge can help you stay calm and balanced. And even when your child is testing you, practicing patience can benefit both you and your child.
Set aside time for yourself: Finding even a few minutes each day for yourself can help you feel refreshed. Read a few pages of a good book, make time for a hobby, or spend time with friends or family so you can return to parenting feeling more resilient (here are 20+ more self-care ideas to try).
Celebrate small victories: Progress for children with ADHD often happens gradually. Recognize and celebrate small steps forward, like completing a homework assignment, sitting through dinner, or managing a change of activity calmly. Acknowledging that these achievements are part of your hard work and dedication—as well as your child’s—reminds you that your efforts are making a difference.
Make meditation part of your family life: Ease your own stress, and help your child learn to meditate, too. Learn how with our nine tips and techniques for meditation with ADHD.
💙 Explore the ADHD Support Series with Jeff Warren to learn mindfulness tools designed for real life with ADHD.
6 treatment options for ADHD in children
ADHD treatment plans are often most effective when they include a mix of therapies, and parents can play an essential role in supporting treatment at home.
Behavioral therapy: This is often the first line of treatment for younger children. Behavioral therapy can teach children skills like organizing tasks, following instructions, and managing their behavior. Parent training is often part of this approach, helping you learn strategies to reinforce positive behaviors.
Medication: Medications, like stimulants (methylphenidate or amphetamines), are commonly prescribed for ADHD. These can help improve focus and reduce impulsivity in some children. Non-stimulant medications are also available, especially for children who may not respond well to stimulants.
Parent training programs: These programs help you learn how to support and reinforce positive behavior at home. Programs may include strategies for discipline, reward systems, and managing challenging behaviors in constructive ways.
School-based support: Many children with ADHD benefit from adjustments at school, such as extra time on tests, modified assignments, or seating changes. Work with teachers and school counselors to create a personalized support plan for your child.
Social skills training: Some children with ADHD struggle in social situations, so extra help in these areas can help them learn to take turns, share, and recognize social cues, which can improve their time spent with friends and peers.
Mindfulness and exercise: Mindfulness practices and regular physical activity may also help children manage ADHD symptoms. Physical activities, especially those that involve coordination and structure, like martial arts, can be great for boosting focus and self-control.
ADHD in children FAQs
What are the signs of ADHD in a child?
ADHD can show up in a variety of ways. The signs can vary in intensity and don’t always look the same in every child. Keep an open mind and seek professional guidance if you’re noticing a pattern of these behaviors that affects your child’s day-to-day life.
Some of the main signs fall into three categories:
Inattention: A child may find it hard to stay focused, frequently lose track of their things, or get easily distracted by sights or sounds around them. They may seem like they aren’t listening, even when you’re speaking directly to them, and can often have trouble following instructions, especially if the task involves several steps.
Hyperactivity: This can appear as constant motion. They may be fidgety, unable to sit still for long, or frequently get up during times when they’re expected to remain seated, like in class or at the dinner table. Kids with hyperactivity may also have difficulty playing quietly and may talk a lot.
Impulsivity: A child may act before thinking. They might interrupt conversations, struggle to wait for their turn, or blurt out answers in class.
Can diet and nutrition impact ADHD symptoms in children?
While diet alone doesn’t cause or cure ADHD, certain foods and nutrients can influence energy levels, focus, and overall mood, which may impact how ADHD symptoms show up. While changes in diet aren’t a replacement for medication or behavioral therapy, providing a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can support their overall health and potentially ease some symptoms. It’s always best to discuss dietary changes with a healthcare provider who understands your child’s unique needs before you alter what they eat.
A balanced diet that includes protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats can support more stable energy levels throughout the day.
Some studies suggest that children with ADHD may benefit from eating fewer processed foods and limiting their intake of sugar and artificial food dyes, as these can sometimes make hyperactivity or impulsivity worse in some kids.
Adding omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish like salmon or in flaxseed and walnuts, may also help with focus and attention for some children.
Ensuring children get enough iron, zinc, and magnesium can support healthy brain function.
How can schools accommodate children with ADHD?
Many schools offer accommodations for children with ADHD to help them manage their symptoms and succeed academically. A good place to start is to speak with your child’s teachers or school counselor to discuss any specific challenges they’re facing.
Schools often provide accommodations under a 504 plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which can include support like extra time on tests, access to quiet spaces, or different seating arrangements to minimize distractions for your child. These plans are customized to each child’s needs to ensure they have the same opportunities to succeed as other students.
Classroom strategies can also make a big difference. Teachers may use extra visual aids, break down instructions into smaller steps, or check in with the child frequently to keep them on track. Some children with ADHD benefit from having a designated “buddy” to help with organization or a daily planner to keep track of assignments. Allowing movement breaks during the day can also help, as many kids with ADHD find it easier to refocus if they have a few minutes to release energy and practice a bit of self-care.
It’s important to keep the lines of communication between teachers, parents, and the student open, so you can work together to make any adjustments as your child grows and their needs change.
Are there alternative therapies effective for managing ADHD?
Alternative therapies for ADHD, such as mindfulness practices, yoga, and certain dietary supplements, can be helpful for some children as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. While these therapies shouldn’t replace traditional treatments like behavioral therapy or medication, they can complement those treatments and support overall well-being, helping children manage their ADHD symptoms in a holistic way.
Mindfulness and meditation can improve focus and help children become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, which is especially helpful for managing impulsivity. Simple breathing exercises, mindful coloring or meditative drawing, or short guided meditations can help children calm their minds and bodies and provide them with tools to handle stress or restlessness.
Yoga, meditation, and other physical activities, like martial arts, can also be beneficial. These practices combine movement with focus and discipline, which can improve self-control, balance, and attention.
Dietary supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, have shown promise in supporting focus for some kids, but it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your child’s routine.
What is the role of exercise in managing ADHD symptoms?
Exercise plays a big role in managing ADHD symptoms because it helps regulate mood, improve focus, and release excess energy. Physical activity triggers the release of chemicals in the brain that are linked to attention and motivation. For children with ADHD, regular exercise can help them feel more centered and reduce feelings of restlessness or hyperactivity.
Structured activities, like team sports, dance, or martial arts, not only help with focus and coordination but also teach valuable skills like patience, discipline, and teamwork.
Even short bursts of exercise can help kids refocus during the day, so get them out for a quick walk, or spend a few minutes stretching.
For children who struggle with sitting still in class, taking movement breaks can help them come back to their work with renewed attention.
How can siblings and family members support a child with ADHD?
If a child in your close family has ADHD, there's plenty of helpful things you can do to support them, and make them feel accepted and included.
Explain to brothers and sisters that their sibling with ADHD might have challenges with focus or self-control, and that they don't mean to be this way — it's just how their brain works. This can help children accept each other as they are and prevent misunderstandings, resentment, and fights between siblings. Parents can encourage empathy by talking openly with siblings about ways they can help, like giving their sibling extra time to finish tasks or taking turns during family activities.
Family members can also help by creating a calm, supportive home environment and using consistent routines. It’s helpful to include the child with ADHD in setting up house rules or routines that everyone follows, like using visual schedules for chores or family events. This allows them to feel a sense of ownership over their day, rather than having expectations imposed on them. Encourage brothers and sisters to support each other with reminders, sharing praise, and celebrating each other’s accomplishments.
Calm your mind. Change your life.
Mental health is hard. Getting support doesn't have to be. The Calm app puts the tools to feel better in your back pocket, with personalized content to manage stress and anxiety, get better sleep, and feel more present in your life.
Images: Getty
