Navigating Neurodiversity: Strength-Based Support for ADHD Kids with Dr. Ned Hallowell

The St. John Parent Association, in partnership with ParentMap, provided an opportunity to hear Dr. Ned Hallowell, renowned pediatric psychiatrist and author, speak to our community on January 16, 2025. Dr. Hallowell takes a strengths-based approach to navigating neurodiversity and helping kids (and families) thrive. See below for some of the insights discussed during this session.

  • ADHD can be better understood as an abundance of attention rather than a deficit of attention. This additional attention can be a strength but can also create challenges for kids. It becomes more difficult to modulate/control attention.
    • As a parent/caregiver, you can shift your focus from what your child can’t do to what they CAN do.
  • Motivate kids with ADHD by building self-esteem and confidence.
    • When you succeed, you feel motivated to keep going.
    • Tasks need to be difficult/challenging (to avoid boredom), but not so challenging that success is impossible.
    • Tasks also needs to be important to the child.
    • Parents/caregivers – keep encouraging!
  • If something is difficult, try these three things:
    • Never worry alone – create a strong connection with your child.
    • Get the facts – understand the situation.
    • Make a plan – what will you do to overcome this challenge?
  • Create games for the child to foster engagement and motivation to complete tasks. Parents/caregivers can have a “toy chest” of games available to choose from so they don’t have to think of something in the moment.

Additional Resources

Click below to access the recording of the event. Use the password: ed*talks*replay

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