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Parenting with ADHD: How to Manage Your ADHD While Supporting Your Child's

Writer's picture: Dr. Janina MaschkeDr. Janina Maschke

It’s a scenario that many families encounter: a child is diagnosed with ADHD, and soon after, one of their parents recognizes the symptoms in themselves. What might seem surprising to parents is, in fact, a familiar pattern to clinicians. ADHD often runs in families, with research showing that approximately 25% of parents whose children are diagnosed with ADHD have the condition themselves.


For many adults, the realization that they have ADHD doesn’t come until later in life—often when they’re struggling to keep up with the demands of parenting, work, and relationships. Misdiagnosis and stigma play significant roles in this delay. ADHD in adults is frequently mistaken for depression, anxiety, or simply being "bad at multitasking." Women, in particular, are often overlooked because ADHD symptoms present differently across genders.



This dual dynamic—parenting a child with ADHD while managing one’s own symptoms—can be overwhelming. But with the right strategies, treatments, and mindset shifts, parents can improve their ability to support both themselves and their children.


Understanding ADHD in Parents

For parents who have undiagnosed ADHD, the challenges of raising children can be amplified. ADHD affects organizational skills, impulse control, and emotional regulation—all critical elements of effective parenting. Parents with ADHD may struggle to stay on top of their child’s schedule, manage treatments, or enforce consistent routines.

The good news? Recognizing and treating ADHD in adults can lead to significant improvements in parenting skills, stress levels, and overall family dynamics.


The Importance of Getting a Diagnosis

Many parents feel relief after receiving an ADHD diagnosis. It’s not uncommon for adults with ADHD to carry feelings of guilt or failure, wondering why they’ve struggled with work, relationships, or parenting. A diagnosis provides clarity and shifts the focus from self-blame to understanding that ADHD is a manageable condition.


Treatment often includes a combination of behavioral therapy, ADHD Coaching and medication. Stimulant medications can improve focus and organization, while therapy can provide tools for managing time, emotions, and tasks more effectively.


Tips for Managing ADHD as a Parent

  1. Start with Yourself

    Taking care of your own ADHD is essential for successfully managing your child’s. Seek professional support and develop strategies that work for your unique challenges. Whether it’s medication, therapy, or organizational tools, addressing your needs first helps you become a more effective caregiver.


  2. Create Structure and Routine

    ADHD thrives in chaos, but routines can provide much-needed stability. Use calendars, apps, or simple to-do lists to manage your family’s schedule. Set regular times for meals, homework, and bedtime to reduce stress for everyone.


  3. Practice Self-Compassion

    ADHD can make even simple tasks feel daunting. Instead of beating yourself up for forgetting something or struggling with consistency, focus on the small wins. Celebrate progress, no matter how minor, and remind yourself that parenting is hard—even without ADHD.


  4. Collaborate with Your Child

    If your child has ADHD, involve them in creating systems that work for both of you. Use visual aids, color-coded charts, or rewards to encourage good behavior and follow-through. Kids with ADHD often respond well to positive reinforcement and clear expectations.


  5. Simplify and Delegate

    Don’t try to do it all. Simplify your family’s schedule by cutting out unnecessary activities and delegating tasks where possible. Share responsibilities with your partner or ask for help from friends and family.


  6. Managing Emotions with Mindfulness

    Parenting a child with ADHD can be emotionally overwhelming—especially if you also have ADHD. Learning to stay calm, centered, and focused is essential, but not always easy. That’s where mindfulness can help.


    Mindfulness is a simple, effective tool that helps both parents and children build self-awareness, reduce impulsivity, and handle big emotions. If you’re new to mindfulness, my free Children’s Mindfulness Workbook is a great starting point. It’s packed with fun, easy-to-follow activities for families to practice together.

    Download the Free Mindfulness Workbook Here


Managing Your Child’s ADHD

Parenting a child with ADHD often means navigating meltdowns, impulsive behavior, and emotional outbursts. For parents with ADHD, staying calm and consistent during these moments can be particularly challenging.


  • Focus on Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for good behavior rather than focusing solely on corrections.

  • Stay Calm During Outbursts: Take a moment to pause and regulate your own emotions before responding to your child.

  • Be Patient: Remember that ADHD is a developmental disorder. Progress may be slow, but consistency is key.


Research shows that when parents with ADHD receive treatment, they’re better equipped to manage their child’s symptoms. Effective parenting strategies can improve not just the child’s behavior but also the overall parent-child relationship.



If you’re ready to dive deeper and gain a full understanding of ADHD in both yourself and your child, grab my ADHD Parent Guide here.

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