ADHD in kids is one of the most commonly discussed—and commonly misunderstood—diagnoses in parenting today. If your mental image of ADHD involves a fidgety, blurting, can’t-sit-still kind of kid, you’re not wrong… but you’re not seeing the whole picture.
In the latest episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, child psychiatrist Dr. Melissa Wellner and I take a deep dive into the symptoms of ADHD that don’t get enough airtime. And trust me—some of these might be showing up in your house whether your child has a diagnosis or not.
The Hidden Side of ADHD
Here’s what ADHD in kids can really look like:
- Emotional outbursts that seem to come out of nowhere
- Time blindness—your child truly doesn’t feel the passing of time the way you do
- Working memory struggles, like forgetting your directions 30 seconds after you gave them
- Rejection sensitivity and a tendency to interpret correction as criticism
- Sleep issues, especially trouble winding down or shutting off their busy brains
It’s not always about hyperactivity. Sometimes it’s about being too focused—like when your child zones into a video game so deeply they don’t hear you calling their name (three times). This hyperfocus is actually part of the ADHD experience and can be a powerful asset—if you know how to work with it.
“My Kid Might Have ADHD… but I’m Not Sure.”
Parents often come to me saying, “I don’t know if it’s ADHD, but something’s not working.” Their child may not have a diagnosis, but the daily meltdowns, forgetfulness, or rollercoaster moods have them feeling like they’re parenting with one hand tied behind their back.
And here’s the kicker—sometimes the parent starts nodding along with the symptoms too. Because ADHD is highly heritable, and many adults (especially women) weren’t diagnosed as kids.
Gentle Parenting Doesn’t Always Cut It
A big part of the problem? Most mainstream parenting advice is designed for neurotypical kids. For ADHD kids—especially those with the hyperactive or combined type—some of those strategies can backfire. In this episode, we talk about what actually does work, and why empathy + structure is often the magic combo.
We also touch on what ADHD kids wish their parents knew. (Spoiler: They’re not trying to drive you bananas.)
The Superpowers of ADHD
Despite the challenges, ADHD in kids comes with a host of surprising strengths. These kids tend to be:
- Exceptionally creative
- Quick-witted and often hilarious
- Highly empathetic
- Energetic and adaptable
- Deeply curious and passionate when something sparks their interest
In the right environment, with the right support, ADHD kids can thrive. But first, we have to understand them—not just correct or contain them.
Tune In and Take What You Need
If you’re parenting a child who’s distractible, intense, or constantly “driven by a motor,” this episode is for you. You’ll walk away with:
- A clearer understanding of ADHD in kids
- Tips for building empathy without losing your mind
- Ideas for supporting executive function without micromanaging
- And some hope (and laughs) along the way
🎧 Click here to listen to the episode or search Parenting Shrink Wrapped on your favorite podcast app.
If you’re looking for more support raising your quirky, curious, exasperatingly wonderful kid, come check out the Teen Savvy Parent Hub. It’s packed with real talk, practical tools, and a community of parents who get it.
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