01/20/2026
TIDBIT TUESDAY - ADHD
Ever notice a child (or adult!) with ADHD doing everything except the one thing they’re supposed to be doing? 🧠✨
It can look like avoidance, laziness, or not caring — but what’s often really happening is a brain that’s overwhelmed, under-stimulated, or struggling to organize and start tasks.
Why this happens: ADHD brains have a harder time with executive functioning skills like starting tasks, staying focused, prioritizing, managing time, and regulating impulses. When a task feels boring, confusing, too big, or emotionally uncomfortable, the brain looks for something easier or more stimulating instead. That’s why you might see organizing pencils instead of writing the paper, wandering around instead of starting homework, or scrolling instead of completing a task.
Signs to watch for: • Trouble getting started even when they “know what to do”
• Getting distracted by small or unrelated tasks
• Frequent procrastination or avoidance
• Emotional shutdown, frustration, or overwhelm
• Hyperfocusing on the wrong thing
• Needing frequent reminders or redirection
Common traps we fall into (and why they don’t help): • Repeating the same command louder or more often
• Assuming they’re being lazy or disrespectful
• Taking away all breaks or movement
• Power struggles that increase stress and shutdown
What actually helps: • Break tasks into small, clear steps
• Use timers, visual lists, or written reminders
• Offer movement breaks or short reset moments
• Pair boring tasks with something motivating (music, rewards, body movement)
• Give clear, calm instructions one step at a time
• Validate effort, not just outcomes
• Teach planning and organization skills instead of assuming they already have them
ADHD isn’t a lack of effort — it’s a difference in how the brain manages attention, motivation, and follow-through. With the right supports and strategies, individuals with ADHD can absolutely thrive.
If you’d like support building skills, routines, and confidence, counseling can help. 💛
