Although doctors and researchers still aren't certain what causes ADHD, doctors typically diagnose children based on information from teachers and family about the child's behavior over recent months and years. 

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Treatment for ADHD can include behavioral therapies, medication, or a combination of the two. The course of treatment depends in large part on the type of ADHD that a child has. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends parent training on how to manage their child's behavior as one of the primary treatment methods. Additional behavior therapies for the child are also recommended before medication, most often. Still, medication can be an incredibly helpful tool for helping children manage their symptoms in everyday life.

The CDC provides the following suggestions for helping your child manage ADHD:

• Create a routine.

  • ​Try to follow the same schedule every day, from wake-up time to bedtime.

• Get organized.

  • ​Encourage your child to put schoolbags, clothing, and toys in the same place every day so that they will be less likely to lose them.

• Manage distractions.

  • ​Turn off the TV, limit noise, and provide a clean workspace when your child is doing homework. Some children with ADHD learn well if they are moving or listening to background music. Watch your child and see what works.

• Limit choices.

  • ​To help your child not feel overwhelmed or overstimulated, offer choices with only a few options. For example, have them choose between this outfit or that one, this meal or that one, or this toy or that one.

• Be clear and specific when you talk with your child.

  • ​Let your child know you are listening by describing what you heard them say. Use clear, brief directions when they need to do something.

• Help your child plan.

  • ​Break down complicated tasks into simpler, shorter steps. For long tasks, starting early and taking breaks may help limit stress.

• Use goals and praise or other rewards.

  • ​Use a chart to list goals and track positive behaviors, then let your child know they have done well by telling them or by rewarding their efforts in other ways. Be sure the goals are realistic—small steps are important!

• Discipline effectively.

  • ​Instead of scolding, yelling, or spanking, use effective directions, time-outs or removal of privileges as consequences for inappropriate behavior.

• Create positive opportunities.

  • ​Children with ADHD may find certain situations stressful. Finding out and encouraging what your child does well—whether it’s school, sports, art, music, or play—can help create positive experiences.

• Provide a healthy lifestyle.

  • ​Nutritious food, lots of physical activity, and sufficient sleep are important; they can help keep ADHD symptoms from getting worse.