As a parent, you’re always looking for ways to help your child grow and learn. But when it comes to kids with thinking and learning differences, things can be confusing. One question you might have is: “Is ADHD a neurodevelopmental disorder?” Knowing the answer can help you understand your child’s mind better and give them the support they need. In this blog post, we’ll talk about ADHD, why it’s a neurodevelopmental disorder, and how this information can help you as a parent.
Table of Contents
Understanding ADHD
Before we answer the main question, let’s talk about what ADHD is. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a condition that makes it hard for a person to focus, control their actions, and manage their energy. ADHD is usually found in kids and can continue into adulthood. There are three main types of ADHD symptoms:
- Inattention: Trouble focusing, being forgetful, and disorganized
- Hyperactivity: Having too much energy, being restless, and not being able to sit still
- Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, and being impatient
It’s important to remember that every child with ADHD is different. Some kids might have more trouble with inattention, while others struggle more with hyperactivity or impulsivity. As a parent, understanding these differences can help you support your child in the best way possible.
Is ADHD a Neurodevelopmental Disorder? The Real Answer
Yes, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions that affect how the brain grows and works. These disorders usually show up in childhood and can change how a person learns, communicates, and gets along with others.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder because it involves differences in how the brain grows and works. These differences affect attention, impulse control, and energy levels. Studies have shown that some people with ADHD have different brain structures, brain chemicals, and connections compared to those without ADHD.
| Brain Structure | Brain Chemicals | Connections |
|---|---|---|
| Smaller prefrontal cortex | Lower levels of dopamine and norepinephrine | Less connectivity between brain regions |
Why Does This Matter?
Knowing that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder can help you as a parent in several ways:
- Understanding: Realizing that your child’s struggles come from their brain growth can help you be more patient and understanding.
- Support: Knowing what ADHD is can help you ask for the right help and support in school and other places.
- Helping Your Child: Understanding how ADHD affects the brain can guide you in choosing the best treatments and strategies for your child.
For example, Goally is a learning tablet designed specifically for neurodivergent kids, which can be a helpful tool in supporting your child’s unique needs.
Read More: What Does Untreated ADHD Look Like?
How to Support Your Neurodivergent Child
Now that we know ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, let’s talk about ways you can help your child:
1. Get Professional Help
First things first, getting a correct diagnosis and setting up a treatment plan is key. Now, this is not a job for any old doc – you need someone who knows their stuff when it comes to neurodevelopmental disorders. So seek out a doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist who specializes in this area.
They are your child’s ticket to the right care – a personalized plan that could involve therapy, medication, or other treatments that best fit your child’s needs. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to ADHD. It’s all about finding what clicks for your child, and these professionals can help you do just that. ADHD might be a tricky puzzle, but together, we can solve it!
2. Make a Structured Home
Children with thinking and learning differences usually thrive when they have some structure around them. Think set routines, clear expectations, and yes, visual aids. They can be real game-changers in helping your child stay organized and laser-focused.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “That sounds like a lot of work.” But here’s the good news. Goally’s learning tablet is like your personal assistant in creating this structured environment. This little gem offers customizable schedules, gentle reminders, and even rewards to keep your kiddo on track. Let’s just say it’s the secret sauce to turning the chaos of ADHD into a well-orchestrated symphony!
Build Custom Printable Visual Schedules
Is your child having trouble managing their routines? Here’s a free visual schedule builder. Goally’s custom tool allows you to create printable personalized schedules that motivate your child to focus on their tasks. Perfect for morning, homework, and bedtime routines, this free visual schedule builder is easy to use and will help your child reach their full potential.
Click below to make your CUSTOM printable visual schedule! 👇
3. Encourage Exercise
When your kiddo is bouncing off the walls or finding it hard to concentrate, remember, a small amount of physical activity can go a long way. Find something they love – could be soccer, ballet, cycling, anything that gets them moving. Not only will it uplift their spirits, but it’s also a great chance for some quality family time. Plus, we all know the bonus of staying fit, right? So, let’s embrace exercise – it’s not just fun, but also a smart way to manage ADHD symptoms. Your child’s neurodevelopment, and family’s overall well-being, will thank you.
4. Help with Social Skills
Sure, it can make socializing a bit challenging for the little ones. But hey, who said making friends was a piece of cake, right? Here’s the thing – practice makes perfect. Give your child opportunities to flex their social muscles. Playdates? Absolutely. Joining clubs? Yes, please. Social skills groups? Bingo!
And let’s not forget the most important role model they’ve got – you! Show them the ropes of good social behavior, guide them gently when things get tricky. Parenting an ADHD child can be a journey, but remember, every little social interaction they have is another step towards building great friendships. So let’s roll up our sleeves and help them navigate the playground of life!
5. Learn and Stay Involved
Keep yourself in the loop about all things ADHD, from the latest research to new resources that pop up. The more you know, the better you can advocate for your child and make informed decisions.
And let’s not forget school. It’s like a second home for your kiddo, right? So stay involved. Be that parent who knows their child’s teachers on a first-name basis. Make sure your child is getting all the support they need in the classroom. After all, tackling ADHD is a team sport – and you’re one of the key players!
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.
Celebrating Your Child’s Unique Mind
Understanding that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder can help you see your child’s unique mind more clearly. By knowing the reasons for their challenges, you can approach their needs with empathy, ask for the right support, and use strategies to help them succeed. Remember, your child’s neurodiversity is not a limitation but a different way of experiencing the world. Embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their strengths as you support them on their journey. With the right tools, like Goally’s learning tablet, and your unwavering support, your child can thrive and reach their full potential.
FAQs About If ADHD Is a Neurodevelopmental Disorder
What are some common signs and symptoms of ADHD? Common signs and symptoms of ADHD include difficulty sustaining attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, forgetfulness, and difficulty with organization.
Can ADHD be outgrown? ADHD is a lifelong condition, but symptoms can change over time. Many individuals learn effective coping strategies and find ways to manage their symptoms as they grow older.
Are there effective treatments for ADHD? Yes, there are effective treatments for ADHD, including behavioral therapies, medication, and various interventions that can help manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
How can parents support a child with ADHD? Parents can support a child with ADHD by establishing routines, providing clear expectations, using visual schedules, and utilizing tools like emotional regulation apps to promote organization and self-control.
Can ADHD affect academic performance? Yes, ADHD can affect academic performance due to challenges with attention, focus, and organization. However, with appropriate support and accommodations, children with ADHD can succeed academically.
This post was originally published on April 28, 2023. It was updated on June 12, 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.
