ADHD Resources
ADHD is more than distraction or hyperactivity — it’s a different way of thinking, processing, and engaging with the world. Many children with ADHD are creative, energetic, and full of ideas, but they may also need support with focus, planning, or regulation. With the right strategies, ADHD can become a source of strength rather than struggle.
These resources, curated by Dr. Jessica Snowden Patel, highlight affirming perspectives, practical tools, and everyday strategies to help families support their children with confidence.
Books
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ADHD 2.0 — Edward Hallowell & John Ratey
Written by two psychiatrists who also have ADHD, this book frames ADHD as both a challenge and a gift. I don’t love their chapter on “brain balance,” and you can ask me why — but beyond that, I really like the book. It emphasizes creativity, connection, and play as powerful ways to help kids thrive.
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Different Thinkers: AD/HD — Katia Fredriksen, Ph.D. & Yael Rothman, Ph.D.
A child-friendly, affirming book that helps kids understand ADHD in positive ways. It’s also wonderful for siblings to read together so everyone feels included in the conversation.
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ADHD is Awesome — Penn & Kim Holderness
Really funny and very easy to get through — this one can even work well for teens. It normalizes ADHD with humor and real-life stories, and feels like friends talking honestly about family life.
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Smart but Scattered — Peg Dawson & Richard Guare
All about executive functioning — the brain’s “air traffic control system.” It gives practical strategies for building organization, planning, and focus. I love how it frames kids as capable and resourceful while giving parents real tools to work with their strengths.
Podcasts
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Learn Smarter Podcast
Hosted by two educational therapists, this show is packed with practical strategies around executive functioning and learning differences.
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Scrambled: The Children’s Mental Health Podcast
Hosted by my friends, this podcast blends humor with affirming insights about child development. They did a fantastic three-part ADHD series that digs into research behind ADHD medications, strategies, and what families need to know.
Apps & Tools
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Brili Routines — a visual routine app that helps kids (and adults) move through their day with less stress.
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Headspace for Kids — mindfulness made accessible for younger kids with ADHD.
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Time Timer — a classic visual timer that makes time concrete.
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GoNoodle — fun movement and brain breaks that get kids’ energy out in a positive way.
Websites
Neurowild
Neurowild creates some of our favorite visuals explaining autism, ADHD, sensory differences, sibling conversations, and more. These illustrated resources are available for purchase from the Neurowild Store.
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How to ADHD — Jessica McCabe’s platform is one of the most accessible and engaging ADHD resources out there, with videos, strategies, and community support.
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Understood.org — one of my favorite parent-friendly ADHD resources.
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ADDitude Magazine — articles, strategies, and personal stories for parents and adults with ADHD.