Generational Cycles of ADHD: How To Spot Them and What To Do

Did you know that ADHD has an 80% heritability rate? In simple terms, this means ADHD runs in families! In fact, research suggests that if a parent has ADHD, diagnosed or not, their child is two to even eight times more likely to also have it.

It’s natural to see ourselves in our children. We see how they think similarly to us and have many of the same strengths! But it can be painful to see them struggle or have difficulties in similar ways we did as children, too. 

Whether you have ADHD and are noticing signs in your child, or your child has ADHD and you’re starting to reflect on yourself, this guide will provide some insights into identifying and addressing the genetic thread of ADHD. 

Understand Your Own ADHD First

As the saying goes, the best way to learn is to teach! To truly help a child navigate their ADHD, parents must understand their own. Ask yourself these questions:

• Where do you see ADHD impacting your life and relationships?

• What do you find that you are especially good at because of the way your brain works?

• What types of activities are challenging for you, and how do you best navigate them? 

This foundation will help you break generational cycles and build healthy family support systems that you all can benefit from. 

It’s All In the Visuals

At Unlockt, we frequently work with families to create custom chore or routine checklists for children to help turn big tasks into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This limits the need for working memory, and children get the satisfaction of checking off the list. Implementing visual family checklists or calendars in a shared space, like the kitchen, can provide a transparent, accessible way for all family members to stay in the loop and prepare for any changes in routine–whether they have ADHD or not! 

Creating ADHD-Friendly Spaces, At Home

Did you know that a well-organized and encouraging home environment can significantly influence the ability to manage ADHD symptoms? Creating distraction-free study or work areas and using positive reinforcement are small changes that can make a huge impact for all family members. 

Click here to visit our blog for our blueprint for an ADHD-friendly home environment!

Embrace Co-Regulation

We all get frustrated. If you catch yourself becoming unregulated with your child, take it as an opportunity to sit face-to-face and take five deep breaths, together. This will allow you both to calm down and assess the situation with clear eyes and calm emotions. Plus, you’ll be modeling positive behavior that will benefit them for the rest of their life. 

Celebrate the Wins

For parents with ADHD raising children with ADHD, small wins lead to huge victories over time. Keep track of the highs and go over them together. It’s easy for children to remember things they did wrong; it’s much more powerful when they can relive what they did well. 

At Unlockt, we’ve always believed that ADHD unlocks superpowers. If you’re a parent living with ADHD, embrace your new superpower as a parent who’s walked in your child’s shoes. Need a little extra help? We’re just one call away.