If you’ve ever wondered whether your child’s distractibility, energy, or impulsiveness is “just being a kid” or something more—you’re not alone.
As part of our ongoing childhood mental health series, we spoke with Jessy Boon, Behavioral Health Manager at Partners In Pediatrics, about how ADHD shows up in kids, when to seek support, and how families can help children thrive at home and at school.
What is ADHD?
“ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder,” Jessy explains. “It’s a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, emotional regulation, and impulse control.”
While every child has moments of distraction or restlessness, Jessy says ADHD shows up in a persistent, consistent way and tends to impact kids across multiple environments, such as home, school, and social settings.
“There are actually three different types of ADHD,” she says:
- Inattentive type – more daydreamy or forgetful; trouble focusing or staying organized.
- Hyperactive/Impulsive type – more physically active, fidgety, or interruptive.
- Combined type – symptoms of both.
“It’s also important to know that ADHD isn’t just about attention,” Jessy adds. “Many kids with ADHD also struggle with emotional regulation. They may feel constantly corrected or misunderstood, which can really affect their confidence over time.”
What’s Normal and What’s Not?
“Kids are naturally wiggly and distractible at times—that’s part of being a kid,” Jessy says. “But if certain behaviors are consistently intense, last for more than six months, and start to interfere with school, friendships, or home life, that’s when we want to take a closer look.”
She encourages parents to trust their instincts. “If you notice that your child’s behavior stands out compared to other kids their age, or your gut tells you something isn’t quite right, it’s totally okay to seek guidance.”
What Causes ADHD?
“There’s no one cause,” Jessy says. “ADHD often runs in families, and it’s thought to be related to how the brain develops and functions. Environmental factors might also play a role.”
She’s quick to debunk common myths: “Sugar, poor parenting, or too much screen time don’t cause ADHD. Those things might make symptoms worse in some cases, but they’re not the root cause.”
When Should Parents Seek an Evaluation?
“If your child’s behavior has been concerning for at least six months—and especially if it’s showing up in more than one environment—it’s a good time to check in with your pediatrician or behavioral health team,” Jessy says.
Some common signs include:
- Trouble sitting still during age-appropriate activities
- Constant movement or impulsivity
- Easily distracted or forgetful
- Difficulty following instructions or finishing tasks
- Struggles with friendships or social cues
“ADHD isn’t about a few bad days. It’s about ongoing patterns that are impacting day-to-day functioning,” she adds.
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
At PIP, Jessy and the team take a collaborative, thoughtful approach to ADHD evaluations.
“We use tools like the Vanderbilt Assessment, which gathers information from both parents and teachers. That’s important because we want to understand how your child functions across different settings,” she says.
Jessy emphasizes that it’s not a one-size-fits-all process. “We also look at developmental history, family background, and current functioning to make sure we’re seeing the full picture—not just isolated behaviors.”
What Helps Kids with ADHD Thrive?
“There’s so much we can do,” Jessy says. “And it really starts with understanding what your child needs to feel successful and supported.”
Here are some of her go-to tips for parents:
- Stick to predictable routines
- Use clear, consistent expectations
- Break tasks into manageable steps
- Limit distractions during homework or quiet time
- Provide positive reinforcement for effort, not just outcomes
- Offer movement breaks throughout the day
- Use visual aids like checklists or schedules
- Stay emotionally connected and curious about their experience
“When kids know what to expect—and feel supported rather than shamed—they’re more likely to develop confidence and coping skills.”
What About School Support with ADHD?
Jessy encourages open communication with your child’s teacher.
“Teachers are part of your team,” she says. “If your child has—or might have—ADHD, it’s really helpful to share what’s working at home and ask what they’re noticing at school.”
Simple adjustments like preferential seating, movement breaks, or extended time on assignments can go a long way. “The more we collaborate, the more consistent and effective our support becomes.”
What Treatments Are Available for ADHD?
“There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for ADHD,” Jessy explains, “but there are several effective options—often used in combination.”
These may include:
- Behavioral therapy to build self-awareness and coping tools
- Parent coaching to support calm, confident parenting strategies
- Medication, usually stimulants, to improve focus and impulse control
“Many families find that a blend of therapy and medication works best,” she says. “Medication can help with the neurobiology, while therapy gives kids the tools to navigate everyday challenges.”
Do Lifestyle Choices Make a Difference?
“Yes, absolutely,” Jessy says. “Sleep, movement, and nutrition all have a big impact on how kids with ADHD feel and function.”
- Sleep: “Many kids with ADHD have trouble falling or staying asleep. A consistent bedtime routine and screen-free wind-down time can really help.”
- Movement: “Daily physical activity improves attention, emotion regulation, and even sleep. Let your child move—often and in ways they enjoy.”
- Nutrition: “Balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber help with focus and energy. Avoiding long gaps between meals is important too.”
A Whole-Child Approach to ADHD
At PIP, Jessy says the team takes a “whole-child, whole-family” approach to care.
“We’re not just looking at a diagnosis—we’re looking at the child in the context of their life,” she says. “That means understanding their environment, their strengths, their stressors, and their support systems.”
Jessy encourages parents not to feel like they have to figure it all out alone.
“ADHD can feel overwhelming at first, but there’s so much hope. With the right support and strategies, kids with ADHD can absolutely thrive—and so can their families.”
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