Meltdowns and big emotions
Big feelings come fast for many kids with ADHD. These resources focus on staying connected and calm.
Try this first
A 3-step starter
- 1
Calm first, talk later
In the moment, keep words few and your voice low. Problem-solve once everyone is calm.
- 2
Name the feeling
"You're really frustrated." Naming it helps your child feel understood.
- 3
Look for the pattern
Note when meltdowns happen: hungry, tired, transitions? Plan around the hard times.
Tools and resources
Choiceworks
For parentsPicture-based schedule waiting and feelings boards for younger kids
Taking Charge of ADHD (Russell Barkley)
For parentsLong-running parent handbook by a leading ADHD researcher (4th ed.)
What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew (Sharon Saline)
For parentsBook
Peaceful Parent Happy Kids (Laura Markham)
For parentsGeneral emotion-coaching parenting book and site (not ADHD-specific)
Good Inside (Becky Kennedy)
For parentsMembership app and workshops on emotion-focused parenting; has content on deeply feeling kids
Triple P Positive Parenting Program
For parentsEvidence-based parenting courses online and in groups; some provinces/regions fund free access
Child Mind Institute – ADHD
For parentsParent and teacher articles on ADHD at different ages and in the classroom
Kids Help Phone
For parentsFree 24/7 counselling for young people by phone and text
Banz kids earmuffs
For parentsKids' hearing protection earmuffs
LIFE Seminars (Allison Rees)
For parentsGeneral parenting courses and counselling for handling challenging behaviour at home; not ADHD-specific
Scattered Minds (Gabor Maté)
BooksBook
This site does not diagnose ADHD or give medical advice.