Understanding ADHD Challenges: When Your Kid's Struggles Are Also Their Superpowers

Published 2 days ago• 7 minute read

SingaporeMotherhood | Parenting

March 2025

Parents despair when their children are diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). After all, no one wants their kids to live with ADHD challenges. Yet while early diagnosis is crucial for ensuring timely support, it’s essential to recognise that ADHD isn’t all bad. According to Rachel Francis, Psychotherapist at Promises Healthcare, it simply means that your child has a unique way of processing the world.

By embracing these unconventional perspectives and playing your cards right, you can help your child turn these ADHD challenges into advantages, and set them on the path to finding success in life.

While ADHD presents challenges such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, these traits can also come with unique advantages.

For instance, many children with ADHD possess exceptional creativity. Their minds are constantly making unconventional connections, which can lead to innovative thinking and artistic expression. This creative potential often lends itself to fields like the arts, as well as problem-solving environments where thinking outside of the box is essential.

Moreover, the high energy characteristic of ADHD can be a real asset. Children with ADHD often bring enthusiasm and vigour to everything they do, from sports to academic projects.

ADHD-ers also have the unique ability to hyperfocus, so when they get stuck in a project that interests them, their drive to complete that task is unmatched, and the resulting product often extraordinary. Such energy, when channelled correctly, can drive them to succeed in dynamic and fast-paced environments.

Finally, children with ADHD can be remarkably resilient and adaptable. Due to the daily challenges they face, they naturally develop coping strategies that make them more flexible, creative, and resourceful.

channelling ADHD challenges into music — *Image: Lifestylememory on Freepik*

Because ADHD challenges can translate into select strengths, parents can rest assured that their child can find good jobs when they grow up. In fact, there are several fields where the traits associated with ADHD can truly shine.

One of the key areas is entrepreneurship. The creativity, resilience, and willingness to take risks make many individuals with ADHD natural innovators and entrepreneurs. Think of successful business figures like Adrian Tan, who has openly discussed how his ADHD has been a driving force behind his ventures.

The arts and entertainment industries also benefit from the high energy and creativity individuals with ADHD often exhibit. From musicians and actors to all manner of designers, ADHD-ers can thrive in these fast-paced, expressive fields.

Moreover, certain professions that require quick decision-making and adaptability, such as emergency services or high-stakes environments, are well-suited to people with ADHD.

Finally, and perhaps despite their own experiences at school, people with ADHD make engaging and compassionate teachers. ADHD-ers can channel their energy, dynamic and creative thinking, and empathy into their teaching, in order to provide an exciting and flexible learning environment.

They are too numerous to name! Look to any profession that boasts successful individuals, from award-winning actors to CEOs, and invariably you will find those who attribute their success to those common ADHD traits. These individuals show that, rather than being a setback, ADHD can be a driving force, helping them stand out and achieve their goals.

One powerful example is local food-preneur, Aaron Yeo, who attributes much of his entrepreneurial spirit and determination to the traits often associated with ADHD, like hyperfocus, creativity, and resilience.

A slightly different case that highlights the inspirational power of those with ADHD is that of Singaporean mum Moonlake Lee. After her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD, Lee turned to advocacy. She founded Unlocking ADHD, an organisation that provides support, resources, and awareness for families facing similar challenges.

These success stories exemplify how ADHD can be a source of strength rather than an obstacle. Success is not found despite ADHD, but in many ways because of it, through resilience, creativity, and the determination to turn perceived limitations into powerful tools for growth.

So, how can you help your ADHD child grow up to be just as successful? Try incorporating these strategies into their everyday life.

Finally, work with healthcare professionals to develop tailored strategies and, if necessary, treatment plans, which can be incredibly beneficial in helping your child reach their full potential.

In my clinical experience, I’ve seen numerous children with ADHD develop impressive coping mechanisms and achieve success as they grow.

One client, in particular, was a nine-year-old girl diagnosed with ADHD. Amy (not her real name) came to me struggling with anxiety and anger management. Her mother told me that she was a terror to her younger sister, insisted on everything being done her way, and would have anxiety-induced meltdowns when anything was unexpected.

I realised quickly that Amy wanted to address these issues but felt too embarrassed and frustrated. Soon into our sessions, finally feeling understood and validated, she jumped into acquiring strategies and skills, so much so that she ended up teaching these to her younger sister, a fellow ADHD-er.

The family was preparing to move to America, something her mother had been dreading due to the effect this massive change might have on her daughter. But this nine-year-old ended up being her mother’s rock throughout the entire process.

As far as I know, Amy’s still thriving in America, acting as a pioneering voice in her class for emotional regulation and skills development, and continuing to be a support for both her mother and younger sister.

overcoming ADHD challenges — *Image: freepik*

The best thing you can do for your ADHD child is to create an environment of understanding and patience. Instead of focusing on their challenges, try to highlight their strengths and provide positive reinforcement when they excel. It’s important to remember that children with ADHD often respond well to consistent, clear instructions and expectations.

A tough pill to swallow is that sometimes we just have to let things go. When working with an ADHD child, it is crucial to focus on just one or two behaviours at a time. If we criticise everything we think the child does wrong, it can result in them developing a mindset of, “I can’t do anything right.”

Remember to praise their effort, and not just their outcomes. Acknowledge how hard they are trying, empathise with their struggles, and be their biggest cheerleader. Say things like, “I know we didn’t leave the house exactly at the time we planned, but we were five minutes earlier than yesterday.”

On the flip side, avoid negative or critical language. Telling a child they are “lazy” or “not trying hard enough” can be damaging to their self-esteem. Likewise, punishing them for behaviours beyond their control, such as impulsivity or inattentiveness, can lead to frustration and a lack of motivation. Instead, focus on setting achievable goals and offering praise when they make progress.

It’s completely understandable for parents to feel frustrated at times, but there are several strategies that can help manage ADHD at home.

One effective approach is to implement a reward system, where children earn positive reinforcement for completing tasks or following through on commitments. This can help them stay motivated and focused.

Physical activity is also crucial — it helps to release excess energy and improve focus. Encourage regular exercise, whether it’s sports, dancing, or simple outdoor play. Is it a coincidence that many world-class athletes, from swimmer Michael Phelps to gymnast Simone Biles, are ADHD-ers?

Finally, open communication is essential. Regularly check in with your child to understand their perspective and how they’re feeling. Involve them in planning coping strategies. This fosters a supportive and collaborative relationship that can make managing ADHD at home much easier.