ADHD in children: a parent's guide

Summary

• ADHD in children is common and very manageable with the right support.
• A psychologist can assess your child and give you practical strategies. Medication, if needed, comes from a paediatrician or psychiatrist.
• Supporting yourself as a parent is part of supporting your child.

Parenting a child who may have ADHD can be exhausting. The constant redirection, the notes from school, the sense that ordinary days take twice the energy. The first thing worth knowing is that ADHD is a real, recognised difference, not the result of bad parenting or a naughty child. The second is that the right support changes things, for your child and for you.

Support for your family: Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) offers free counselling for young people aged 5 to 25, and for parents. Lifeline 13 11 14 is there any time. In an emergency, call 000.

What it can look like in kids

It shows up differently with age and from child to child. Some children cannot sit still or wait their turn. Others are dreamy and lose track of everything. Many are both. The question is not whether your child is ever lively or distracted. It is whether the pattern is persistent and getting in the way at home, at school and with friends.

How assessment works for children

Assessing a child draws on more than one view. A psychologist gathers a developmental history from you, uses standard questionnaires, and almost always asks the school for input, because ADHD shows up across settings. For children it is often a team effort, with a paediatrician or GP involved too.

How a psychologist helps your child, and you

Beyond assessment, the work is practical. You get strategies that suit your child, ways to support focus and big feelings, and approaches that build their confidence rather than chip at it. And importantly, they support you too, because a calmer, backed-up parent is the most powerful thing a child has. For the bigger picture, see our guide to ADHD and psychology.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my child has ADHD or is just energetic?

The key is whether the pattern is persistent, beyond what is typical for their age, and causing trouble across home, school and friendships. An assessment makes it clear.

Can a psychologist diagnose my child?

A psychologist runs a thorough assessment, usually with school input and often alongside a paediatrician. Medication, if needed, is prescribed by a paediatrician or psychiatrist.

Does my child need medication?

Not necessarily. Many children do well with strategies and support. If medication is considered, a paediatrician or psychiatrist guides it, and the choice is yours.

Can this be done by telehealth?

Yes. Much of children's ADHD assessment and parent support works well by video.

Important: This is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Your child should be assessed by a registered practitioner. In a crisis, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or 000.