ADHD Parent Guide | Brain Health Psychiatry

ADHD Parent Guide

A clear, practical guide for families—what ADHD is, how it shows up in children and teens, treatments that help, and how to secure support at school.

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What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental condition with persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that begin in childhood and impact daily life at home, school, and with friends.

Key point: ADHD is common and treatable. Many children do well with the right supports.

Symptoms in Children & Adolescents

Inattention

Careless mistakes; misses details
Hard to sustain focus
Doesn’t seem to listen
Disorganized; loses items
Easily distracted; forgetful

Hyperactivity / Impulsivity

Fidgets; “on the go”
Leaves seat; runs or climbs excessively
Talks excessively; blurts out answers
Difficulty waiting turn
Interrupts or intrudes

Evidence-Based Therapies

Behavior Therapy

Parent training in behavior management
Positive reinforcement; consistent routines
Clear rules; visual schedules

Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies

Task-breaking; checklists; timers
Organization & planning skills
Emotion regulation & coping tools

Under age 6: Parent-training first. Age 6+: Combination of therapy and, when indicated, medication.

Medications

Two main categories help ADHD symptoms. Responses vary by child; dosing is individualized and monitored.

Stimulants

Type	Examples	Side Effects
Methylphenidate	Ritalin LA, Concerta	↓ appetite, insomnia, headache
Amphetamine	Adderall XR, Vyvanse	↓ appetite, irritability, ↑ heart rate

Non-Stimulants

Class	Examples	Side Effects
Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors	Atomoxetine (Strattera), Viloxazine (Qelbree)	Nausea, fatigue, insomnia; rare mood changes
Alpha-2 agonists	Guanfacine ER, Clonidine ER	Drowsiness, dizziness; taper to stop

Managing Side Effects

Appetite: give with meals; evening snack
Sleep: earlier dosing; shorter-acting form; sleep hygiene
Drowsiness (alpha-agonists): start low, titrate slowly; avoid missed doses

How to Help Your Child Do Better at School & Get Accommodations

When ADHD or other mental-health challenges affect schoolwork, federal laws can provide supports so your child can access a free and appropriate public education.

Two Main School Plans

IEP (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) — the most comprehensive option; may include resource-room time, specialized instruction, related services (e.g., counseling), extra time for tests, and more.
Section 504 Plan (Rehabilitation Act) — keeps the student in the general classroom but adds agreed-upon accommodations (e.g., extended time, preferential seating, reduced distractions, organizational support).

Parent Action Steps

Talk with the teacher(s). Share observations and ask what’s getting in the way of learning; request classroom strategies.
Request a school evaluation in writing. A simple letter works: “I am requesting an evaluation for my child.” Keep copies of all correspondence.
Participate in the team meeting. Review results with the IEP/504 team (teachers, school psychologist, nurse, evaluators). You may invite your child’s clinician(s).
Build the plan. Agree on accommodations, modifications, and services that match your child’s needs. You (and your child, when appropriate) must approve recommendations; you can appeal decisions.
Communicate and adjust. Ask teachers to flag when supports aren’t working so you can update the plan together.
Seek an advocate if needed. Local organizations can help you navigate IEP/504 processes; educational attorneys are another option if services are denied.

Examples of Supports

Classroom

Preferential seating; reduced distractions
Visual schedules; chunked assignments
Check-ins for organization & planning
Movement breaks; alternative test setting

Testing & Workload

Extended time; separate location
Smaller problem sets with equal mastery
Audio support or read-aloud when appropriate
Assistive tech (timers, planners, organizers)

Tip: Keep a binder (or shared drive folder) with teacher notes, emails, grades, behavior logs, and any provider letters—this evidence helps tailor and update the plan.

Checklist: Getting Accommodations for ADHD

☐ List school concerns (attention, organization, work completion, behavior, testing)
☐ Collect documents (report cards, teacher emails, prior evals, clinical notes)
☐ Send a written evaluation request to the school
☐ Attend the IEP/504 meeting; bring your notes and questions
☐ Confirm specific accommodations/services in the final plan
☐ Set a communication schedule with teachers (e.g., monthly check-ins)
☐ Track what works; request plan updates if supports aren’t effective
☐ Contact a local advocate if you need help

This section is informational and not legal advice. For personalized guidance, consult your school district and education resources.

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