Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Child ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to focus, sit still, and manage impulses. It’s not about being naughty—kids with ADHD often want to do well but find it hard to stay on track. Symptoms usually show up before age 12 and can include inattention (like getting easily distracted or forgetting things) and hyperactivity or impulsivity (like fidgeting, talking a lot, or acting without thinking). Every child presents differently, and it’s not unusual for ADHD to show up alongside other challenges like anxiety or learning difficulties. With the right support, kids with ADHD can absolutely thrive. Treatment for child ADHD might involve behaviour strategies, parent support, therapy, school adjustments, and sometimes medication. If you’re concerned, it’s a good idea to speak with your GP or a clinical psychologist.
Signs of child ADHD usually fall into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Some kids show one more than the other, while many have a mix. If these behaviours are ongoing and affecting daily life, it’s worth speaking to a GP or psychologist.
Easily distracted or has trouble staying focused on tasks or play
Struggles to follow instructions or finish things like homework
Loses things like school supplies, toys or clothing
Forgetful in daily activities
Fidgets or has trouble sitting still, especially in quiet settings
Talks excessively or interrupts others often
Blurts out answers or has difficulty waiting their turn
Acts without thinking, sometimes in risky ways
Finds it hard to stay organised or manage time well
Avoids tasks that require a lot of mental effort, like homework or chores
1 in 20 Australian children are diagnosed with ADHD
ADHD often continues into teenage and adult years
Girls are often missed, as they may show fewer hyperactive behaviours
ADHD is brain-based, not caused by poor parenting or screens
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions in children, affecting around 3-9% of kids worldwide—including Australian children. Research shows that ADHD isn’t just a short-term phase some kids grow out of. For many, the symptoms continue into the teen years and even adulthood, impacting learning, social skills, emotional wellbeing, and day-to-day functioning.
Scientific studies are clear: ADHD is a brain-based condition, not caused by poor parenting, too much screen time, or lack of discipline. Children with ADHD often want to behave well, stay focused, and get things done—it’s just that their brain works a little differently. Areas linked to attention, impulse control, and executive functioning develop more slowly, which can make everyday tasks harder.
When it comes to treatment for child ADHD, the research consistently points to what’s called a multi-modal approach. This means combining a few different strategies rather than relying on just one. The most effective support includes:
According to the evidence, medication works best when it’s paired with behavioural support, rather than used on its own. Likewise, therapy and parent coaching are more effective when families have access to evidence-based tools tailored to ADHD.
Some parents are curious about alternative or non-medication therapies. The research shows that standalone non-pharmacological treatments—like mindfulness, neurofeedback, neurocognitive training, or dietary changes—don’t reliably reduce the core symptoms of ADHD. However, that doesn’t mean they’re not helpful at all. These approaches may still play a useful role in improving things like emotional regulation, sleep, social skills, or school performance when used alongside other supports.
It’s not just what happens in the clinic that matters—what happens at school and home counts too. The research highlights the benefit of:
These strategies can boost concentration, reduce impulsivity, and help kids feel more in control of their day.
So, what does all of this mean for families navigating ADHD? In short, the gold standard for managing and treating child ADHD is a personalised, well-rounded plan. That might include medication, therapy, school support, parent coaching, and healthy lifestyle habits. Every child is different, so the best approach is one that fits their individual needs and strengths.
If you’re considering treatment for child ADHD, it’s worth speaking to your GP or one of our clinical psychologists. We can help guide you through the options and tailor a support plan that actually works—for your child, and your family.
*Source: ADHD in children and adolescents: Review of current practice of non-pharmacological and behavioural management – National Library of Medicine | PubMed Central
Tackle one step at a time to help your child stay focused and avoid overwhelm.
Consistent routines and visual reminders (like charts or checklists) help kids stay on track.
Notice and celebrate small wins—it builds confidence and motivation.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, holding Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT for Children), Emotion Coaching, Parent Management Training (PMT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), to provide tailored support for children with ADHD, helping them manage attention, behaviour, and emotional regulation.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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