When it comes to working with kids who have ADHD, it’s easy to mistake skill-based issues with behavioral issues.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say things like:
“They’re just lazy.”
“He doesn’t care about doing well in school.”
“I’ve tried giving rewards and punishments…nothing motivates her.”
In many cases, it seems like kids are willing to spend more time arguing and avoiding work than it would have taken to do the work in the first place.
As a parent or educator supporting kids, this can be maddening. Especially when it’s obvious to you that they’re self-sabotaging.
What most people don’t realize is that things like procrastination or arguing are NOT always signs that your child is defiant or has a “behavior problem”.
These are often SYMPTOMS of a bigger issue…
But the good news is that this is something that can be improved with practice, so your kids can learn to be more resilient, productive, and adaptable.
That’s why I decided to interview Mike McLeod, a speech-language pathologist who specializes in ADHD and executive functioning to gain some insight on how to help.
During this conversation, we talk about:
✅Red flags of executive dysfunction, how it relates to organization and time management, and why it’s so common in kids with ADHD.
✅What the “argument vortex” is, and the reason kids would rather argue with parents than get their work completed (even with simple tasks).
✅Why kids with ADHD have such a hard time getting motivated to start work, and what parents can do to support them when this happens.
✅Common myths about time management, accountability, and intelligence as it relates to people who have ADHD or related conditions.
If you’re supporting a child with ADHD, this is a must listen.
Mike has a wealth of knowledge from his work with students and families, and shares a ton of great insights that will help you understand some of your kid’s most challenging habits and tendencies.
The following resources are mentioned in this interview:
For information on nonverbal working memory, check out Dr. Russell Barkley’s website here.
For information on Sara Ward and her resources for supporting executive functioning skills and time management, visit her website here.
To learn more about Ryan Wexelblatt, the ADHD Dude who coined the term the “Argument Vortex” for kids with ADHD, visit his YouTube Channel here.
To connect with Mike McLeod, you can visit his website here, follow him on Instagram at @grownowtherapy or visit his Facebook page here.
And finally, if you’re a parent who wants to set your kids up for success as adults, then then you’re going to love this free parent guide, which I mentioned in this episode. In this guide, I share the set of skills that kids need in order to stay organized, focused, and motivated during their day-to-day tasks like chores and homework.
In the guide, I share the essential set of skills kids need to stay emotionally regulated and attentive, and apply critical thinking skills so they can stick with challenging tasks independently, without nagging, bribes, or constant hand-holding. When you sign up for the guide, you’ll also be added to my mailing list so you’ll be the first to know when podcast episodes air and when doors to my parent training program are open. Just click here to sign up for the free parent guide.