Imagine your child playing nicely at home but becoming fidgety when you go to the store. You might think, “Can children with ADHD mask their behavior?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many parents of neurodivergent kids wonder about their child’s ability to change how they act in different situations. In this post, we’ll talk about ADHD and masking. We’ll learn how to spot the signs and how you can help your child. Knowing more about your child’s behavior can help them deal with ADHD better. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Quick Look at ADHD
First, let’s remember what ADHD is. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a brain condition that affects kids and adults. It makes it hard to focus, sit still, and control actions. Kids with ADHD may have trouble finishing tasks, following directions, and paying attention. This can make daily life, making friends, and school harder.
ADHD can be divided into three types:
- Inattentive type
- Hyperactive-impulsive type
- Combined type
Now, let’s see how masking fits into ADHD.
Read more: What is ADHD Masking?
Masking: Real or Not?
Masking means hiding or covering up true feelings, thoughts, or actions. It’s a way for neurodivergent kids, like those with ADHD, to cope. Studies show that children with ADHD can mask their behavior in some situations. They may do this because they want to fit in or because they feel they have to. So, the answer to “Can children with ADHD mask their behavior?” is yes, they can.
Masking can happen in many situations, like at school, with friends, or during family gatherings. Kids with ADHD might try to hide their symptoms to avoid getting into trouble or feeling different from others.
How to Tell if Your Child is Masking
Now that we know kids with ADHD can mask their behavior, how can you tell if your child is doing it? Here are some signs:
- Acting very different at home and school or other places
- Getting upset or angry after hiding their true feelings
- Avoiding people or activities they used to enjoy
- Feeling tired or stressed from trying to hide their ADHD symptoms
Watch your child’s behavior and look for any changes that could mean they’re masking. Trust your gut and talk to your child’s teachers and support team. They can also help you spot signs of masking and give you more information about your child’s behavior at school or other activities.
Read more: What Are Hidden Disabilities?
Helping Your Child Be Themselves
Masking can be tiring for kids with ADHD. It’s important to make them feel safe and supported so they can be themselves. Below are some tips and tricks to help your child be true to who they are:
- Learn about ADHD: Know more about ADHD and its symptoms to better understand your child’s challenges.
- Talk openly: Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings without judging them. Let them know it’s okay to be themselves.
- Speak up for your child: Work with teachers and other adults to make sure they understand ADHD and help your child.
- Find support: Connect with other parents of neurodivergent kids to swap stories, advice, and support. This can aid in your child feeling less alone.
- Set routines: Having a regular routine can help kids with ADHD feel more in control.
When setting routines, consider these aspects:
- Morning routines
- After-school schedules
- Bedtime routines
- Weekend plans
Try Goally For Your Child With ADHD
Goally helps kids with ADHD stay focused and build skills. Unlike a Kindle or an iPad that kids get easily distracted on, Goally has no YouTube, no social media, no web browser, and especially no ads.
Goally uses game play as a points-based motivator for your kiddo with ADHD and helps them learn emotional regulation skills. It’s simple to set up and has an expert-informed design.
Taking off the Mask: Helping Your Child Grow
In the end, children with ADHD can mask their behavior, and knowing the signs is key to helping them. By learning about ADHD, talking openly, and standing up for your child, you can help them be their true selves and deal with any problems they face. Remember, every child is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Be patient, understanding, and active in helping your child grow. Together, you can take off the mask and help your child reach their full potential.
This post was originally published on 05/02/2023. It was updated on 08/02/2023.
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
