Part 4: Educate Yourself – Knowledge is Power for ADHD Parents
Part 4: Educate Yourself – Knowledge is Power for ADHD Parents
Welcome Back
Welcome to Part 4 of our video series on coping with an ADHD diagnosis.
In this video, we’re diving into one of the most important topics of all:
Educating yourself.
It might not sound as exciting as medication or therapy, but honestly?
Learning about ADHD is the single most powerful thing you can do to help your child.
Why Education Matters More Than You Think
If I had to choose one thing that makes the biggest difference in a family’s ADHD journey, it would be this:
An informed, empowered parent.
When you understand ADHD:
- You make better decisions.
- You know what to expect.
- You can confidently challenge outdated advice.
- And most importantly—you can advocate for your child’s needs.
Becoming a Lifelong Learner
Even after over 21 years in this field, I’m still learning every day—from books, journals, patients, and families.
And you’ll learn too—through:
- Reading
- Listening to podcasts
- Watching videos
- Attending appointments
- Learning from your child’s day-to-day experiences
You’re not just parenting anymore—you’re becoming your child’s executive coach.
Where to Start Your ADHD Learning Journey
Here are some trusted, easy-to-access resources to help you get started:
🧠 Books
- Taking Charge of ADHD by Dr Russell Barkley – a brilliant, bite-sized introduction to ADHD and its treatment.
- Driven to Distraction by Dr Ned Hallowell – an eye-opening look at how ADHD plays out in daily life.
Check out the reading list on my website, which includes handpicked resources I recommend to all families.
🎧 Podcasts
Podcasts are great for learning on the go:
- Search “ADHD” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
- Many of them are free and cover parenting tips, lived experiences, and expert interviews.
🌐 Reliable Websites
Beware the internet “bazaar” of ADHD advice. Stick to these credible, evidence-based sites:
- www.help4adhd.org – Hosted by CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
- www.chadd.org
- www.caddac.ca – Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance
- www.aacap.org – American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
🎥 Video Resources
- Dr Russell Barkley’s YouTube lectures – clear, practical, and packed with science-backed insight
- Ned Hallowell’s talks and interviews – engaging and relatable
Tap into Your Healthcare Team
Doctors like myself who specialise in ADHD often provide a wealth of information.
Here are some tips to get the most from your appointments:
- Come with a list of questions
- Don’t be afraid to ask for reading or video recommendations
- Email us between appointments if something important comes up—we’re here to help
Join a Community
You don’t have to walk this road alone.
There are many support groups, including:
- Guy Little Minds Facebook community – a safe place to connect with other families on the ADHD journey
- My websites:
These sites are full of free resources, blog posts, and tools to help you stay informed.
Why I’m So Passionate About ADHD Education
I truly believe that education changes lives.
When parents are informed, children get the support they need sooner, with fewer wrong turns along the way.
Unfortunately, in South Africa, we don’t have as many active national ADHD organisations as we’d like—especially after COVID.
That’s why I often refer families to trusted international groups like CHADD in the US.
What’s Coming Next…
In the final part of this series, I’ll be sharing something practical and powerful:
12 principles to help you become an “Executive Parent”—a calm, confident leader in your child’s ADHD journey.
You’ll learn how to take charge, set the tone at home, and make sure your child gets the help they deserve.
