ADHD Resources

Managing the complexities of ADHD may feel overwhelming at times, but there are tools and resources that can help you and your child.

Planning ahead for summertime with ADHD
Tips for combining fun and structure—the recipe for the best summer ever for the child with ADHD!

Talking to the teacher
Tips for a successful school year, and questions to help guide discussions with your child’s teachers.

Holiday ADHD checklist
Download this form to assist in planning holiday events and activities with your family.

IEPs and Section 504 Plans
This chart compares the main points of each plan side by side, to help you understand the differences.

At-home strategies to help your child with ADHD

Managing ADHD can feel difficult at times. But little strategies at home may make a big difference. If your child is struggling with ADHD at home, you might want to try one or more of the following strategies.

Setting Daily Routines
- Set predictable, daily times for meals, homework, bedtime, and play to help your child meet expectations
- Some children with ADHD also benefit from the use of clocks or cellphone timers to help transition from one activity to the next
Managing Distractions
- Try to avoid stimulating environments (TVs or computers, high-traffic areas of the home) where your child sleeps, eats, or does homework
- Children with ADHD may also benefit from having a quiet space of their own to go to when feeling overstimulated
Establishing Clear Expectations
The behavioral expectations you have for your child should be clearly spelled out in advance—as should your system for rewards and consequences.
- Be consistent with this system; always implementing praise where possible
- Positive interactions or rewards can actually help improve attention, concentration, and impulse control in children with ADHD
Modeling Healthy Behavior
Lead by example! You are the primary influencer on your child’s behavior.
- Set up your home in a neat and organized way so that your child knows that everything has its place
- Do not use electronics during meal or family times
- Get rid of the junk food in your home, and model healthy meal preparation and eating habits
- Take walks or play games together as a family

At-school strategies to help your child with ADHD

Work with your child’s teachers to create a successful classroom environment

Both in school and at home, a structured and accommodating environment may benefit children with ADHD. Below are some simple, easy-to-implement strategies for managing ADHD in the classroom. You may wish to discuss these strategies with your child’s teachers.

Seat your child away from easy distractions (doors, windows, cubby areas) that can derail focus
Allow for structured, frequent break times that provide an outlet for physical energy (eg, allowing your child to help hand out papers or assignments, keep the classroom tidy, or take bathroom or stretch breaks)
Schedule your child’s most challenging subjects in the morning, rather than the afternoon when fatigue and frustration are more likely
Provide concise directions and break down assignments into smaller sections to avoid overstimulation
If allowed by the school, provide tactile stimulation, such as silly putty, stress balls, fidget spinners, etc
Always offer words of encouragement for good behavior to help keep school a positive place!

You are your child’s most important resource!

Not actual patient

That’s why it is equally important for you to practice self-care. Below are some tips on how to maintain coping skills while parenting a child with ADHD.

Stay positive: Maintain your calm and focus in the face of challenges, just as you would want your child to do.

Remember that today’s behaviors can change and improve over time
No family is perfect, so keep your perspective and sense of humor where you can!

Compromise when possible: Focus on the larger goal of behavioral support for your child, and less on the smaller, day-to-day struggles.

Believe in your child: Start the day by making a mental or written list of all the things about your child that are special, positive, valuable, and/or unique.

Trust that your child can succeed as he/she learns, changes, and matures

Take time for yourself: Try not to feel guilty about leaving your child with other caregivers so you can do the things that make you feel happy or nourished.

Exercising, spending time with friends or your spouse—any activities that help you reduce stress are important enough to prioritize

Find a support network: Remember that you are not alone in parenting a child with ADHD.

Reach out to your child’s teachers, therapists, and coaches
There are also many organizations and social networks that provide forums for ADHD support and advice

Education and support for parents

The following ADHD support organizations may help arm you with knowledge, provide a sense of community, or just give you the opportunity to talk to others who may share your parenting challenges.

ADDitude Forums
An online ADHD community from ADDitude magazine, where parents of children with ADHD can ask questions in a “No Judgment Zone.”
Visit ADDitude Forums
ADHD Coaches Organization
A nationwide organization that connects individuals with ADHD to a specialized network of ADHD coaches. ADHD coaching helps clients develop the skills and strategies they need to achieve their personal goals and full potential.
Visit ADHD Coaches Organization
American Psychiatric Association
An organization of psychiatrists working together to ensure effective treatment for all persons with mental illness. Provides education on ADHD, as well as a blog addressing topics relevant to the disorder. Also offers a “Psychiatrist Finder” tool to help connect patients and their families with treatment professionals.
Visit American Psychiatric Association
Center for Parent Information Resources (CPIR)
A central “hub” of information and products created for Parent Centers around the country that serve families of children with disabilities. Children with ADHD are entitled to additional help under 2 primary education laws: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Every state has a parent technical assistance center that may help you learn more about your child’s rights. Knowing your state mandated assistance will help you advocate for your child and make sure he/she receives an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or Section 504 plan.
Visit Center for Parent Information Resources (CPIR)
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)
An established organization founded in 1987 to provide education and advocacy to parents of children with ADHD, as well as adults managing the disorder. CHADD’s Parent-to-Parent Program provides basic education on ADHD and helps parents identify local community training programs.
Visit Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)
Mental Health America
A leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness, and to promote mental health for all Americans. Offers screening tools and policy information specific to individuals with ADHD.
Visit Mental Health America
National Institute of Mental Health
The lead federal agency for research on mental disorders. Offers the latest scientific information on ADHD, as well as resources for finding treatment or participating in clinical trials.
Visit National Institute of Mental Health

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