ADHD & Discipline: The Right Approach vs. Harmful Myths
The other day at the park, we watched a little boy—maybe six or seven—zipping from one play structure to another, arms flailing, giggling with pure joy. His mother called his name repeatedly, but he didn’t respond. Instead, he was immersed in his world, climbing, jumping, and exploring. After a while, she sighed, turned to another parent, and said, “He just doesn’t listen. Maybe if I was stricter, he would behave.”
It wasn’t the first time we had heard something like this. And unfortunately, it won’t be the last. There’s a deep-rooted belief in many communities that children with ADHD need more discipline—the kind that equates to strictness, harsh consequences, or even physical punishment. Recently, a public figure even suggested that ADHD could be treated with the belt.
Let’s pause for a moment. The belt? Really?
This outdated mindset doesn’t just stem from misinformation—it fuels harm. It tells parents that their child’s struggles are a matter of willpower rather than brain-wiring. It convinces teachers that children who fidget, blurt out answers, or struggle with transitions are choosing to be complicated. Worst of all, it makes children with ADHD feel like they are broken instead of understood.
The Truth About ADHD & BehaviorADHD isn’t about bad parenting or a lack of discipline. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition that affects executive functioning—the part of the brain responsible for impulse control, emotional regulation, and focus. Kids with ADHD don’t refuse to listen; their brains often struggle to process multiple instructions, filter distractions, or transition between tasks smoothly.
So, what actually works? Instead of punishment, we focus on skill-building, connection, and structured support. The more we understand how ADHD brains work, the better we can guide our kids in ways that genuinely help them succeed.
What Helps ADHD Kids Thrive?
Clear and Positive Expectations – Instead of “Stop running,” try “Use walking feet inside the house.” Giving clear, positive directions helps children understand what to do instead of what not to do.
Co-Regulation Over Harsh Reactions – If emotions run high, our response matters more than their reaction. Instead of meeting big feelings with punishment, let’s model calm and give them tools to navigate frustration.
Engagement Over Consequences – Rather than punishing a child for struggling to sit still, let’s provide movement breaks, fidget tools, or short bursts of activity to help them positively regulate their energy.
Connection First, Correction Later – Before correcting behaviour, let’s take a moment to connect. A simple “I see you’re having a tough time; let’s figure this out together” can do wonders.
One simple yet effective way to help ADHD kids regulate is using a Red Light, Green Light Check-In:
Red Light – Feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck? Time for a sensory break, deep breathing, or quiet space.
Yellow Light – Getting distracted or restless? Time to reset with a quick movement break, stretching, or a fidget tool.
Green Light – Feeling focused and ready? Let’s keep going with the task at hand!
By practising this regularly, kids recognise their emotions and need before behaviors escalate. And instead of resorting to punishment, we empower them to develop self-awareness and self-regulation skills.
Let’s Change the NarrativeNo child should grow up feeling that their struggles make them bad or that they need to be fixed through punishment. ADHD kids don’t need “tough love.” They need understanding, patience, and the proper support.
If you’ve ever been told your child needs “stricter discipline,” let’s start rewriting that story—together. 
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If you’re looking for tools to support focus, sensory regulation, and emotional regulation for children with ADHD, here are some highly rated products:
Aukfa Stress Relief Stretchy Sensory Toys (Pack of 6) – These stretchy fidget toys provide an excellent way for kids to manage sensory overload, reduce anxiety, and improve concentration. COOLCOLD Kids Slug Fidget Toy – A fun, flexible sensory toy that makes a satisfying clicking sound, helping kids regulate emotions and stay engaged. It’s excellent for playfully providing sensory input. Little’s Colourful Activity Chain Links – These activity links enhance dexterity and visual-motor integration while functioning as a sensory-friendly toy.They can assist in establishing an organised and nurturing environment at home or in the classroom. Let’s continue advocating for positive, research-backed strategies to help neurodiverse kids thrive!
