Understanding ADHD: Myths vs. Facts Every Parent Should Know

Fact: ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a medical condition that affects how a child's brain develops, particularly in the areas responsible for focus, self-control, and organization. It is important to note that ADHD is not caused by laziness or a lack of discipline.

Children with ADHD often make a significant effort to “do the right thing,” but they struggle with challenges such as waiting their turn, completing tasks, and remembering instructions. These difficulties can be frustrating for them as well, not just for the adults in their lives.

What Helps: Establishing consistent routines, providing gentle reminders, and collaborating with professionals who focus on teaching skills rather than punishing behaviors can be beneficial.

Fact: ADHD is primarily genetic. If a child has ADHD, there is a strong possibility that another family member does as well. While food, sleep, and screen time can influence symptoms, they do not cause ADHD.

Parents are often unfairly blamed when their child has ADHD. In reality, ADHD is a brain-based difference that requires support rather than shame.

What Helps: It’s important to learn what can help your child feel calm and focused. This may include establishing consistent bedtime routines, providing healthy snacks, limiting screen time, and seeking professional guidance.

Fact: ADHD can manifest very differently from one child to another. While many people envision a hyperactive child who can't sit still, some children—especially girls—may appear quiet, dreamy, overly talkative, or emotionally sensitive. These variations often go unnoticed or are misinterpreted.

This is particularly true for Black girls, who are frequently underdiagnosed and misjudged. Instead of being recognized for struggling with focus or emotional regulation, they are often labeled as:

These labels stem from biased systems that tend to view the behaviors of Black girls as discipline issues rather than as signs of a neurological condition like ADHD. Consequently, their symptoms may be overlooked, dismissed, or punished rather than supported.

What Helps: Be attentive to signs such as frequent daydreaming, disorganization, difficulty following directions, frustration with tasks, or “zoning out.”

If your daughter is getting in trouble for what is perceived as "attitude" but is actually struggling with focus or emotional outbursts, consider seeking an evaluation from someone who understands how ADHD can present differently based on race and gender.

Fact: Medication is one option, but it is not the only solution, and it does not “fix” ADHD. Instead, medication can help make symptoms more manageable.

The most effective support plans typically include:

What Helps: Talk to your healthcare provider about developing a comprehensive care plan, not just a prescription. Your child needs effective strategies and support, not just medication.

Fact: Children with ADHD can succeed academically when they are taught in ways that match how they learn best. Traditional classrooms are often designed for kids who can sit still, follow multi-step directions, and complete long assignments.

However, children with ADHD may benefit from alternatives such as visuals, hands-on activities, breaks, or smaller class sizes. When these supports are provided, kids with ADHD can excel in school and beyond.

What Helps: It’s essential to advocate for things like Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, or specialized instruction tailored to your child's needs. Success doesn't hinge on conformity; instead, it comes from understanding and adapting to how your child learns best.

If your child has ADHD—or you suspect they might—you are not a bad parent. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to go through this journey by yourself. By learning about your child’s unique brain, seeking the right support, and making necessary adjustments in their environment, you can foster positive change.