Part 6: Structure, Routines & Real-Life Tools for ADHD Success

Welcome back. In this final instalment of our series on coping with ADHD, we’re diving into the practical priorities—those everyday tools and routines that really make a difference for children with ADHD.

Let’s talk about how to create calm, structure, and success in your home—without burning yourself out in the process.

🔑 Principle 4: Prioritise What Really Matters

Life with a child who has ADHD can be chaotic. Mornings are rushed. Routines fall apart. And sometimes, it all feels overwhelming.

But here’s the secret:
You don’t need to do everything.

Ask yourself:

• Does making the bed really matter this morning?
  
• Do chores need to be done before school, or can they wait?
  
• Are you focusing on what’s urgent, or what’s important?
  

Zoom out. Focus on the big picture. Save your energy for the things that truly help your child grow.

🔑 Principle 5: Be Self-Aware and Present

Children with ADHD need constant guidance—often up to 9 instructions per hour!
They forget, drift off, or lose track.

Instead of nagging, try:

• Simple, short instructions
  
• Gentle reminders (use humour if it helps!)
  
• Visual checklists or planners
  

Be a calm shepherd, not a helicopter parent. Let your child make some decisions, but keep an eye out in the background.

🔑 Principle 6: Encourage Responsibility

Your goal is to raise a child who can eventually manage themselves.

Yes, they’re behind in self-control. Yes, they seem younger than their age. But:

• Give them small tasks.
  
• Let them experience consequences.
  
• Teach them to try again after mistakes.
  

This builds confidence, maturity, and independence—one step at a time.

🔑 Principle 7: Parent with Connection, Not Just Correction

Think about the best boss you’ve ever had.
Were they kind? Supportive? Did they make you want to do your best?

Now be that person for your child.

Try:

• Fewer instructions
  
• More praise
  
• Physical affection (high-fives, hugs, a gentle pat)
  
• A 2:1 ratio of positive to corrective feedback
  

Connection before correction. That’s how trust grows.

🔑 Principle 8: Make Time Visual and Real

Kids with ADHD often live in the “now.”
They struggle with time management because they:

• Don’t feel time passing
  
• Forget what’s coming next
  
• Have poor working memory
  

Try using:

• Clocks and timers (kitchen timers, apps, alarms)
  
• The Pomodoro method (20 min work / 5 min break)
  
• Visual schedules and reminders
  

Time needs to be seen and felt—not just talked about.

🔑 Principle 9: Use Physical Reminders

ADHD brains forget. A lot.

Use:

• Sticky notes
  
• Colour-coded files and folders
  
• Labels, charts, and whiteboards
  
• Visual task planners
  

Pinterest is full of brilliant ideas. And stationery shops often have fun, colourful supplies that make organising feel exciting.

🔑 Principle 10: Get Organised (Parents Too!)

Let’s be honest—our children aren’t the only ones who get overwhelmed.

Create:

• A homework zone
  
• A “launchpad” for school bags, kits, and reminders
  
• Systems for routines (e.g. checklists for school mornings)
  

You don’t need perfection. Just systems that help your whole family function a little smoother.

🔑 Principle 11: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Think ahead:

• Need to shop for clothes? Leave your child at home.
  
• Going to church or a long appointment? Bring snacks, a book, or a quiet activity.
  
• Waiting in line? Offer a small reward or task to pass the time.
  

Prepare your child for success instead of setting them up for struggle.

🔑 Principle 12: Teach Problem Solving—Physically!

ADHD kids don’t problem-solve well “in their heads.”

They need:

• Chunking: Break tasks into smaller steps
  
• Sticky notes and diagrams
  
• Mind maps, visuals, or sorting physical objects
  
• Hands-on tools to work things out
  

Turn problems into manual puzzles, not mental pressure.

You Know Your Child Best

At the end of the day, you are the expert on your child.
What works for someone else may not work for you—and that’s okay.

Don’t let anyone tell you your child is just “naughty” or that you’re “too soft.”
ADHD is real. It’s challenging. And it takes specific, thoughtful, loving support.

You’ve got this. And we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Wrap-Up: Let’s Keep Learning, Growing, and Supporting

This concludes our video series on coping with ADHD.
We’ve covered:

• Acceptance
  
• Treatment options
  
• Managing expectations
  
• Becoming an executive parent
  
• And practical, real-world strategie