How to talk to kids about ADHD (it doesn't have to be scary)

It's the question that has well-intended ADHD parents shaking in their boots: what's the right way to tell my kid about their ADHD?

When our kids are newly diagnosed with ADHD and we're navigating our own feelings around what it means for them, it's no wonder having these conversations feel scary.

In this episode of I Forgot, Ron and Liz dive into the often anxiety-inducing topic and offer some hope for reassurance for parents who are desperately just trying to do the right thing.

We're addressing head-on the common (and understandable!) fears we hear from parents:

• I don't want to burden my kid with an unhelpful label!
• How can I help them feel empowered and hopeful?
• I don't want them to feel different or broken
• How much information is too much information?
• I don't want my kid to use their ADHD as an excuse!

An ADHD diagnosis might feel scary at first, but it doesn't have to be a big, bad monster. In fact, having open, supportive conversations can help your child feel empowered, understood and validated.

You don't have to have all the answers right away, and there's a ton of resources and support to help you along the way.

Remember, an ADHD diagnosis is just one part of your child's story – and with your love and support, it can be a pretty awesome one.

Here are some resources for talking to your kids about ADHD at different stages:

• Ned Hallowell's "ADHD Brain is a Ferrari" ADDitude article
• RaceCar Brain YouTube
• Love Me Love My ADHD by Chrissie Davies (book aimed for kids 5-12)
• Explaining Brains conversation template

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