Q & A - ADHD Symptoms Explained: Do I Have ADHD?
The Parent Q&A Sheet for ADHD Symptoms Explained: Do I Have ADHD? is designed to support you as you explore this sensitive and often confusing topic with your child. Whether your young learner is showing signs of ADHD or simply asking questions, this resource offers clear, practical answers to help you feel more confident guiding the conversation.
This printable sheet includes 20 detailed questions and answers, written in plain English, so you don’t need any specialist knowledge to use it. From understanding the types of ADHD to discussing diagnosis and support, the Q&A covers a wide range of useful topics. It encourages honest discussions, clears up common misunderstandings, and helps you explain ADHD in a calm and positive way.
The sheet is especially useful for Elective Home Education families. It gives you the flexibility to dip in and out, adapt questions for your child’s age or understanding, and build the lesson around your family’s needs. You’ll also find ideas at the end for creative thinking and follow-up tasks to keep the learning going. Use it as a tool to build understanding, boost confidence, and support emotional wellbeing.
This topic is part of our Info Zone collection. You can read the full topic, once logged in, here: ADHD Symptoms Explained: Do I Have ADHD?
You’ll also find a full Lesson Plan and a handy Parent Q & A sheet, for this topic, ready to use..
| ADHD Symptoms Explained – Do I Have ADHD? | |
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| Tip for Parents | Use these questions and answers to help explain ADHD in a calm, honest, and friendly way. Let your child lead the conversation where they feel comfortable, and take breaks if needed. |
| 1. What does ADHD stand for? | ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a condition that affects how the brain focuses, stays still, and controls impulses. |
| 2. Is ADHD just about being ‘naughty’ or ‘hyper’? | No. ADHD is a medical condition that affects brain development. Children with ADHD aren’t misbehaving on purpose. Their brains work differently, which can make everyday tasks more difficult. |
| 3. What are the main types of ADHD? | There are three types: inattentive (difficulty focusing), hyperactive-impulsive (fidgety and acts quickly without thinking), and combined (a mix of both). |
| 4. Can a child with ADHD concentrate sometimes? | Yes. Many children with ADHD can focus well on things they find interesting. The problem is with staying focused on things that are repetitive, slow, or uninteresting. |
| 5. Is ADHD caused by bad parenting or too much screen time? | No. ADHD is not caused by parenting or screens. It is mostly genetic, meaning it runs in families. Brain development and chemicals like dopamine also play a part. |
| 6. How do I know if my child might have ADHD? | Look for signs like daydreaming, forgetfulness, trouble staying still, interrupting others, or acting without thinking. These must happen often and in different settings, like home and outside. |
| 7. Can ADHD be diagnosed at home? | No. You can notice signs, but only a doctor or specialist can diagnose ADHD. They may ask about school, friendships, behaviour, and use checklists to guide their decision. |
| 8. What should I do if I think my child has ADHD? | Talk to your GP. They can refer your child for an ADHD assessment. You can also talk to SEN support staff if your child is registered with a school. |
| 9. Is there a cure for ADHD? | No, but there are many ways to manage it. With the right tools and support, children with ADHD can thrive at home, in education, and beyond. |
| 10. Will my child need medicine? | Sometimes. Medicine like methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin) helps some children focus better. Not every child needs it. The decision depends on how much ADHD affects their daily life. |
| 11. What support is available without medication? | Support can include behaviour coaching, therapy, structured routines, quiet learning environments, and using tools like timers, checklists, or visual schedules. |
| 12. Can ADHD cause problems with emotions? | Yes. Children with ADHD can feel frustrated, anxious, or misunderstood. They might struggle with friendships or managing feelings. Emotional support is just as important as practical help. |
| 13. Does ADHD affect learning? | ADHD doesn’t mean your child isn’t smart. Many are very bright but may struggle to show it due to focus or organisation issues. Adjusting how they learn can make a big difference. |
| 14. What are some strengths children with ADHD often have? | They may be creative, energetic, enthusiastic, imaginative, and able to think outside the box. With the right support, these strengths shine. |
| 15. Is ADHD more common in boys? | ADHD is diagnosed more often in boys, but many girls have it too. Girls often show quieter symptoms, like daydreaming or anxiety, so they are sometimes missed. |
| 16. What can I say to help my child feel okay about ADHD? | Let them know it’s not their fault, and they’re not alone. Explain that their brain works differently, and that’s perfectly fine. They can learn to manage things in a way that suits them. |
| 17. How do I explain ADHD to siblings or friends? | Keep it simple. You might say, “His brain is very busy, so sometimes he struggles to wait or focus.” Help others show patience and kindness without making a big fuss. |
| 18. Can ADHD improve with age? | Some children see symptoms reduce as they get older, especially with support. Others carry it into adulthood but learn ways to manage it successfully. |
| 19. How can I help my child build self-esteem? | Focus on what they do well. Praise effort, not just outcomes. Remind them of their strengths. Let them explore hobbies that build confidence, such as art, coding, sport, or music. |
| 20. Where can I find support? | Check out ADHD Foundation or YoungMinds. These offer practical advice, fact sheets, and help for parents and carers. |
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