8 Discipline Strategies for Kids with ADHD

Techniques designed to help children with ADHD develop skills to follow rules, manage impulses, and complete tasks. Eight strategies that may be helpful.

Frank D. Balbusano

11/13/20242 min read

Expert-Approved Techniques for Parents

Raising a child with ADHD may require a different approach to discipline. With a few simple changes to your parenting strategies, you can help your child manage their behavior more effectively. These techniques are designed to assist children with ADHD in developing skills to follow rules, manage impulses, and complete tasks. Here are eight strategies you may find helpful:

1. Provide Positive Attention

Parenting a child with ADHD can be exhausting due to their boundless energy and constant need for attention. However, dedicating quality time and positive attention can make a big difference in their behavior.

Spend at least 15 minutes daily engaging in one-on-one activities with your child.
Reinforce positive behaviors to reduce attention-seeking actions.

2. Give Clear and Effective Instructions

Children with ADHD often struggle to follow directions. To improve their understanding:

Get their full attention before speaking.
Use clear, specific phrases, and give one instruction at a time.
Ask your child to repeat back what they heard to ensure they understood.

3. Praise Your Child’s Effort

Recognizing even small achievements motivates children to behave better.

Be specific with your praise: Instead of saying "Good job," say, "Thanks for picking up your toys so quickly."
Regular feedback helps reinforce positive behaviors.

4. Use Time-Outs When Necessary

Time-outs don’t have to be a punishment; they can be a way to help your child calm down and regain control.

Create a quiet and comfortable space for your child to relax when they feel overwhelmed.
Teach them to use this space proactively to avoid conflicts.

5. Ignore Mild Misbehaviors

Not all negative behaviors require attention. Ignoring minor actions can prevent them from escalating.

Ignore whining, interruptions, and minor noises if they don’t pose a danger.

6. Allow Natural Consequences

Letting your child experience the natural consequences of their actions can be more effective than arguments or force.

For example, if they refuse to eat on time, their hunger will serve as a lesson for the future.

7. Establish a Reward System

Reward systems can motivate children with ADHD to complete tasks and follow rules.

Create a token economy system where they can earn points to exchange for privileges or small prizes.

8. Work with Your Child’s Teacher

Collaborating with your child’s teacher can be crucial for their academic success.

Develop a behavior management plan that’s consistent between home and school.
Consider accommodations such as extra time on tests or frequent breaks.

Implementing these strategies requires patience, but they can significantly improve the behavior of children with ADHD. At Little Smile Behavioral, we understand the unique challenges parents face and are here to provide guidance and support. Follow our blog for more tips and practical tools to help your family thrive!