How to Talk to Your Child About Their ADHD Diagnosis
Explaining an ADHD diagnosis to your child can feel like a big conversation. It’s natural to wonder how they’ll react or what they’ll think about themselves. The good news is, with the right approach, you can help your child understand their diagnosis in a way that empowers them.
Here are five tips to guide the conversation and show your child that ADHD is just one part of who they are—and that you’re on their team.
1. Start with the Basics, Using Simple Language
When explaining ADHD, keep it straightforward and age-appropriate. Avoid medical jargon or long explanations.
Here’s one way to start:
"ADHD means your brain works in a unique way. It’s great at coming up with creative ideas and noticing details other people might miss, but it can also make focusing or sitting still harder sometimes. That’s just how your brain works, and we can figure out ways to help when things feel tricky."
Use relatable examples from your child’s daily life, like how it might feel difficult to finish homework or listen to long instructions. This helps them connect what you’re saying to their own experiences in a way that feels validating and supportive.
For a young child (ages 4-6), you might say:
"Your brain is like a race car—super fast and full of ideas! But sometimes, it needs a little help to slow down and focus. That’s okay! We can work together to find ways to make things easier."For an older child (ages 7-12), you could say:
"ADHD means your brain is always busy thinking and moving. Sometimes that makes it harder to focus in school or remember what to do next, but it also means you have great ideas and lots of energy! We can find ways to help you use those strengths while making tricky things easier."For a teenager, you might explain:
"ADHD affects how your brain processes attention, energy, and organization. It’s not a bad thing, but it can make certain tasks more challenging. The good news is, many people with ADHD are creative, smart, and full of energy. Together, we can figure out what works best for you."
2. Highlight Their Strengths
It’s important for your child to know that ADHD isn’t a flaw—it’s just one part of how their brain works. Many people with ADHD have incredible strengths.
Emphasize what makes them special:
"Because of your ADHD, you have so much energy and creativity. You think of ideas other people wouldn’t, and you have a way of making things exciting and fun. That’s a really great thing."
For a young child, you might say:
"You have such a fun imagination and love to play! Your ADHD helps you think of the best games and stories."For an older child:
"You’re really good at solving problems in creative ways. That’s something a lot of people with ADHD are great at."For a teen:
"Many successful people have ADHD—artists, athletes, inventors. Your unique way of thinking can be a huge strength in the right setting."
This framework helps them see ADHD as part of their identity, not something to be ashamed of. It also encourages self-acceptance and confidence.
3. Explain What You’re Doing to Support Them
Kids feel more secure when they know they have a support system. Let them know you’re learning about ADHD alongside them:
"You’re not alone in this. I’ve been reading and talking to your doctor and teachers about ADHD. We’re figuring out what helps you the most, like fun ways to stay organized, ways to make homework easier, or tools to help you focus. We’ll try things together and see what works for you."
For younger children, you could add:
"I’m learning how to help you feel your best! We can try things like using timers, fun reminders, or movement breaks to help your brain."For older kids and teens:
"There are lots of strategies we can try, like organizing your space differently, using apps for reminders, or finding study tricks that work for you. I’ll support you in figuring out what’s helpful."
This reassures your child that ADHD is something you’ll navigate together, rather than something they have to manage on their own.
4. Invite Questions and Talk About Feelings
Your child might have a lot of thoughts and emotions about their diagnosis. Encourage them to ask questions and express how they feel.
Some common questions might be:
"Does this mean I’m different from my friends?"
"Why do I have ADHD?"
"Will I always have ADHD?"
Answer honestly, while keeping the conversation reassuring. For example, you might say, “You may always have ADHD, but it might change over time. Especially because we’re going to use tools to help you better manage the things that are harder for you. And there are so many people who can help us figure out what works for you."
For younger kids:
"Lots of kids have ADHD, just like you! Your brain works a little differently, but that’s what makes you special."For teens:
"ADHD isn’t something to ‘fix’—it’s just a different way of thinking. The more we understand it, the more we can figure out what works best for you."
If your child feels frustrated or upset, let them express those emotions without judgment. Remind them that their feelings are valid and that they’re not alone.
5. Reassure Them That Help Is Available
End the conversation on an encouraging note. Share examples of how they’re already being supported, like strategies at school, fun tools for focus, or even talking to a counselor or ADHD coach.
Here are some examples:
"We’re going to figure out what works best for you together. You’re never alone in this. Your teacher, doctor, and lots of other people care about you and are here to help."
For younger kids:
"Your teacher and I have ideas to help you do your best at school. We’ll work together to make sure things feel easier for you!"For teens:
"There are tools, strategies, and even ADHD coaches that can help you build skills and make life easier. You don’t have to do this alone."
These messages reinforce the idea that ADHD is not a burden—it’s just a different way of thinking and experiencing the world, and there are plenty of ways to make things easier.
Why Talking About ADHD Matters
When you talk openly with your child about ADHD, you’re giving them the tools to understand and embrace their unique brain. These conversations help them feel supported, confident, and capable.
ADHD isn’t a one-time topic. Keep checking in, answering new questions, and celebrating their strengths. With your support, your child can learn to navigate their ADHD in a way that works for them—and thrive in their own amazing way.
Need More Support?
If you’d like guidance on how to support your child with ADHD, Child Psychology Center offers expert help for families. Our team of professionals can provide strategies, therapy, and resources to help your child thrive. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you and your child on this journey.
Our Services:
Child Psychology Center offers neuro-affirming, culturally competent, evidence-based therapy for children (ages 0+), teens and caregivers. We offer virtual therapy for people throughout all of California, and we offer in-person therapy in Carlsbad, CA and in Folsom, CA. Our services are available in both English and Mandarin. Our licensed psychologists offer psychological assessments. While our therapists specialize in treating children, we also treat adults. We specialize in treating anxiety, child behavioral problems, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, autism (ASD), and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We offer parent coaching and consultation. We would love to support you along your journey. Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation today!
