Supporting Children Who Are Struggling with ADHD: 5 Tools to Help

Hi there! If you’re reading this, chances are you either have a child with ADHD or know someone who does. As a counselor and a parent myself, I understand how overwhelming it can feel when you’re trying to support a child who’s struggling with focus, hyperactivity, or emotional regulation. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) can present a unique set of challenges, but with the right tools in your toolkit, you can help your child navigate those challenges and thrive.

I want to share five supportive tools that I’ve seen work wonders for children with ADHD. These aren’t quick fixes, but practical strategies that can make daily life smoother and help children build the skills they need to succeed.

1. Create a Consistent Routine

Children with ADHD often thrive on structure. A consistent routine provides a sense of security, helps reduce distractions, and makes it easier for them to know what to expect throughout the day.

Example: Establish a daily schedule that includes time for homework, play, meals, and bedtime. Use visual charts with pictures or colors to represent each part of the day. Having a set morning and bedtime routine can reduce frustration and make transitions smoother for everyone.

“After breakfast, we brush our teeth, then it’s time for school. In the evening, it’s homework time from 4 to 5, followed by outdoor play!”

2. Break Tasks Into Smaller Steps

For a child with ADHD, large tasks can feel overwhelming and lead to frustration. Breaking things down into smaller, manageable steps can make a big difference in helping them feel more confident and capable.

Example: Instead of saying, “Clean your room,” break it into specific tasks like “Put the toys in the basket,” “Fold your clothes,” and “Make your bed.” You can even turn it into a fun challenge by using a timer for each step.

“Okay, let’s start with picking up all the Legos. Can you do it before the timer runs out?”

3. Use Positive Reinforcement and Rewards

Children with ADHD often respond well to positive reinforcement. Instead of focusing on what they’re doing wrong, highlight what they’re doing right and reward positive behaviors.

Example: Create a reward system where they earn stars or tokens for completing tasks or demonstrating good behavior, like staying focused during homework time or following instructions. These rewards can be cashed in for fun activities, like choosing a family movie or having extra playtime.

“You stayed focused for the whole 10 minutes of reading—awesome! Here’s a star for your chart. When you get five, we’ll have a game night!”

4. Teach Emotional Regulation Skills

Managing emotions can be tough for kids with ADHD, especially when they’re feeling frustrated or overstimulated. Teaching them ways to calm down and self-regulate is key.

Example: Introduce simple breathing exercises, mindfulness activities, or a “calm-down corner” where they can go when they’re feeling overwhelmed. Help them learn to recognize their emotions and offer them phrases to express how they feel, like “I’m feeling frustrated because…”

“Let’s try the balloon breathing technique. Imagine you’re blowing up a big balloon—deep breath in, then slowly blow it out.”

5. Provide Opportunities for Physical Activity

Kids with ADHD often have lots of energy, and channeling that energy through physical activity can help them focus better throughout the day.

Example: Incorporate movement breaks into their daily routine, like short bursts of exercise or playtime between tasks. Outdoor activities like biking, jumping on a trampoline, or playing sports can help them release pent-up energy and improve their ability to concentrate afterward.

“After 20 minutes of homework, let’s take a quick break and have a dance party!”

Supporting Your Child (and Yourself!)

Parenting a child with ADHD is a journey, and it’s okay to feel like you don’t have all the answers. What matters most is that you’re there, doing your best, and creating an environment where your child feels supported. Each child with ADHD is unique, so be patient as you figure out what works best for them—and for you.

If you ever need more guidance or want to talk about how to support your child with ADHD, I’m here to help. Together, we can make this journey a little easier and more rewarding for both you and your child.

Warmly,

Savery Bakker RPC

Registered Professional Counsellor