ADHD Connect Podcast

When the class clown takes center stage, it’s easy to focus on stopping the behavior, but what if the behavior is telling us something important? In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores why some students with ADHD become disruptive in the classroom and how parents, teachers, and school professionals can better understand the behavior’s underlying causes. Is it attention-seeking? Impulsivity? Academic frustration? Peer dynamics? Boredom? Dr. Tish walks through the underlying causes and explains why identifying the “why” behind the behavior completely changes the intervention. You’ll hear practical strategies for:Understanding classroom disruption through a functional lensRecognizing patterns related to time, peers, and academic tasksSupporting hyperactive and impulsive students more effectivelyUsing movement, structure, and reinforcement intentionallyResponding without escalating the behaviorBuilding collaboration between home and schoolThis episode is part of the ADHD: The Social and Emotional Self series, where Dr. Tish takes a deeper look at the often-overlooked emotional, interpersonal, and behavioral experiences connected to ADHD.📄 Download the companion worksheet + episode guide here.🎙️ Hosted by Dr. Tish Taylor | ADHD Connect Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor introduces season 2 and the deeper focus on the social, emotional, and relational aspects of ADHD. These are areas that are often talked about, but rarely explored in a comprehensive, practical way. From emotional regulation to peer relationships to a child’s internal experience of themselves, this season is about understanding what’s happening beneath the surface. You’ll hear real-life patterns that many families recognize:The child who holds it together all day at school… then melts down at homeThe growing distance in friendships and social struggles that are hard to explainThe frequent “I’m so bored” leaves parents and teachers unsure how to respondDr. Taylor also shares key research insights, including large-scale meta-analyses that highlight challenges with emotional reactivity, peer functioning, and social processing in children with ADHD - reminding us that these struggles are not random, and they’re not a reflection of a child’s character.This episode sets the stage for a season focused on clarity, compassion, and practical strategies, so you can better understand your child and respond in ways that truly help. Have a question or topic you’d like covered this season? Reach out and be part of the conversation at www.TishTaylor.com!

In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores one of the most common challenges for children and teens with ADHD: impulsivity. Impulsive behaviors can show up in many ways, including:Blurting out or interruptingStruggling with personal spaceAttention-seeking behaviorsActing without thinking through consequencesWhile these moments can be frustrating, they’re also opportunities to teach important skills. In this episode, you’ll learn practical tools to help kids pause, think, and make more thoughtful choices:“Stop, Think, Go” to support better decision-makingHow to teach a social filter (thinking vs. saying)Ways to reinforce positive behaviorsSimple strategies to help kids understand consequencesTools to build perspective-taking and empathyDr. Taylor also explores what may be driving impulsive behavior, including sensory needs, attention-seeking, and the desire to fit in with peers, so you can respond with more clarity and confidence. If you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this episode will give you realistic, practical strategies you can start using right away.

How we talk about ADHD shapes how children understand themselves. In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores a question many parents and educators don’t often stop to ask: How are we thinking about ADHD, and is that way of thinking actually helping our kids? Some children hear messages like “I can’t help it, it’s my ADHD.” Others hear “You’re just making excuses.” Neither approach gives kids what they truly need to grow. Dr. Taylor explains a more helpful way to understand ADHD as a neurodevelopmental lag in executive functioning and attention, and why the goal isn’t lowering expectations, or pushing through with shame, but building capacity over time. You’ll learn:Why the language we use about ADHD mattersHow a “not yet” mindset can shift motivation and confidenceWhat scaffolding means and how it helps children succeedPractical examples of adjusting environments to support kids with ADHDWhy progress often happens when adults and children work together to find what worksDr. Tish Taylor also discusses how other challenges, like anxiety, sleep issues, learning differences, or mood concerns, can sometimes be part of the picture and affect how ADHD shows up. This episode offers a calmer, more constructive framework: ADHD may make some things harder, but it doesn’t have to make them impossible. If you're a parent, educator, or caregiver trying to support a child with ADHD, this conversation will help you shift from frustration to strategy, and from limitation to possibility.

When your child has more energy than the situation seems to allow, it can feel exhausting — at home, in the classroom, at sports practices, or even during family outings. In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor talks about hyperactivity in children and teens and offers practical, realistic strategies you can begin using right away.You’ll learn:Why predictable routines help reduce behavioral flare-upsHow planned physical activity can make focus easierThe difference between whole-body movement and small fidgets — and when to use eachSimple mindfulness tools that build self-awareness over timeHow to prepare for challenging settings like church, sporting events, or family gatheringsIn-the-moment strategies that lower frustration for both you and your childThis episode isn’t about stopping your child’s energy — it’s about understanding it and channeling it in ways that work. With the right supports in place, hyperactivity becomes more manageable, transitions get smoother, and everyone feels more successful. If you’ve ever thought, “Why is this so hard?” — this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone, and there are practical ways forward.

Why is it so hard for kids with ADHD to get started on even simple tasks? In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores one of the most common and frustrating ADHD challenges - task initiation. From brushing teeth to starting homework, Dr. Taylor shares practical, real-world strategies you can use right away to help your child move from stuck to started. In this episode, you'll learn how to:Use proximity and visual cues effectivelyRemove distractions that derail progressBreak tasks into manageable stepsUse countdowns, timers, and motivation systemsSupport your child without frustration or power strugglesWhether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this episode is packed with compassionate guidance and expert-backed tools to help kids with ADHD build momentum and success - one step at a time. Explore more ADHD resources and tools at TishTaylor.com.

In this episode, we're diving into a common struggle: when kids with ADHD avoid, ignore, or flat-out refuse to do something they’re asked to do - like brushing their teeth, doing homework, or helping around the house. You’ll learn:The real reasons behind refusal (hint: it's not just defiance)How overwhelm, transitions, and motivation play a roleCommon adult responses that accidentally escalate the situationHow to break out of negative patterns and avoid power strugglesSimple ways to encourage follow-through—without the yelling or frustrationWhether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, these strategies will help you better understand your child’s behavior and respond in ways that build cooperation, not conflict. 

Sleep struggles are one of the most common—and frustrating—challenges for kids and teens with ADHD. In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor explains why sleep is such a complicated issue in ADHD and what families can do to support better rest.You'll learn:• How much sleep kids and teens really need• Why screens, naps, and late-night routines can backfire• Tips for calming anxious minds at bedtime• What to know about melatonin and other sleep supports• How CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia) can helpDr. Tish also shares trusted resources from the Sleep Foundation for further exploration. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, this episode offers practical, hope-filled strategies to help kids wind down and wake up ready to thrive.Visit TishTaylor.com for more resources!

In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores a common but frustrating challenge for parents and caregivers—persistent resistance. Whether it’s homework avoidance, rigid eating habits, or social reluctance, some kids with ADHD dig in their heels and simply won’t budge. So what do we do when logic, encouragement, and even consequences aren’t enough?Dr. Taylor shares practical, compassionate strategies for working through these stuck points—without getting stuck yourself. You’ll learn how to:Reframe the problem in a way that opens the door to cooperationUse her “Disconnector” characters like No Way and One-Way Street to build awareness and spark changeIntroduce new habits gradually and effectively with consistent encouragementStay persistent and positive, even when your child isn’tThis episode is filled with real-world examples and realistic encouragement for families navigating those moments where progress feels impossible. Dr. Taylor reminds us that resistance is part of the journey—and with the right support, it can be overcome.

Looking for holiday gift ideas that go beyond the usual screens and gadgets? In this timely episode, Dr. Tish Taylor shares a thoughtful list of ADHD-friendly gifts for children and teens. These ideas are grounded in what actually engages kids with ADHD—from hands-on building toys and sensory tools to logic games and journals that promote focus and emotional growth.Whether you're shopping for a stocking stuffer, a meaningful main gift, or an experience that builds skills and confidence, you'll walk away with practical suggestions that kids will actually enjoy—and that support their development in the process.No hype, no product sponsorships—just real, tested ideas from years of working with children and teens with ADHD.

In this November episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor dives into a timely and powerful topic: gratitude. While it’s often seen as a feel-good practice, gratitude can actually serve as a practical tool for helping kids with ADHD manage disappointment, regulate emotions, and shift their mindset from “It’s not fair!” to “I’m thankful for…”Drawing from positive psychology and real-life clinical experience, Dr. Taylor shares why gratitude works, how to introduce it in age-appropriate ways, and simple family strategies—from gratitude jars to dinner table questions—that build resilience and emotional strength. Whether your child is six or sixteen, this episode is full of doable ideas you can start using today.Because gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving—it’s a mindset that helps our kids thrive all year long. This isn’t about toxic positivity or pretending everything’s okay—it’s about finding the good, even when things feel hard

You've just received (or maybe are still processing) an ADHD diagnosis for your child—and now you're wondering, Am I doing everything I should be doing? In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor walks you through the key areas of intervention to consider so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. We’ll explore:The importance of parent education and training—and where to startWhen therapy may be helpful, and what type to considerHow to think about medication as part of a treatment planWhat kinds of school supports and accommodations can make a differenceAdditional supports like ADHD coaching, sleep routines, nutrition, and moreWhether your child is newly diagnosed or you’re reassessing what’s working, this episode offers a roadmap to help you feel less overwhelmed and more equipped. No quick fixes—just informed, research-based strategies that support your child at home and school.

Struggling to tell if it’s ADHD or a learning disability? In this episode, Dr. Tish breaks down the differences, what to watch for in reading, writing, and math, and when to consider a formal evaluation. Get clarity—and practical next steps to support your child at home and school.Whether you’re noticing persistent academic struggles or just want to better understand how ADHD shows up in school, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and some practical next steps. Visit the episode page on our website to receive a free downloadable resource that goes with this episode: “ADHD or Learning Disability? How to Tell the Difference — and What to Do Next” at TishTaylor.com/adhd-and-learning-disabilities

Is getting your child with ADHD to complete a task—any task—an everyday struggle? Whether it’s brushing teeth, finishing homework, or just getting out the door on time, task completion challenges are one of the most common (and exhausting) concerns for families. In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor breaks down the different ways task resistance shows up—distraction, emotional overwhelm, or outright refusal—and offers practical, step-by-step strategies for each. Learn how to:Identify why your child is struggling in the momentCreate routines that actually work (even during the chaos of mornings and bedtimes)Use simple tools like countdowns, proximity, and emotional joiningSet realistic expectations and follow through with calm consistencyBuild motivation without constant reminders or power strugglesThis episode will help you feel more equipped and less frustrated the next time you hear, “I’ll do it later!” For more ADHD resources, please visit TishTaylor.com and The ADHD Store for a range of resources, tools, and additional insights.

When emotions run high and behavior escalates, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — and even easier to react in ways we later regret. In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor offers a grounded, practical approach to those emotionally intense, behaviorally challenging moments so common in parenting children with ADHD.Using three key questions, Dr. Taylor helps parents pause, reflect, and respond in a way that supports emotional regulation, reinforces meaningful behavior, and keeps long-term goals in focus — even in the heat of the moment. Whether your child is melting down over a writing assignment or resisting screen time limits, this episode will help you feel more prepared and more confident in how you show up.Visit our website here to access a free companion guide for this episode to walk through the questions in real time or revisit them after a tough moment.

Reward systems can be incredibly effective for kids with ADHD—but only if they're used well. In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor breaks down the nuts and bolts of motivation systems: when to use them, how to design them, and how to keep them working over time. You’ll learn how to define target behaviors, choose meaningful reinforcers, and avoid common mistakes that can derail progress. Whether you're new to reward systems or need to refresh your current plan, this episode offers practical, science-backed strategies to help your child stay motivated and build essential self-regulation skills.

In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor helps you hit the ground running with a back-to-school plan that supports your child’s executive functioning from day one. Whether your child struggles with staying on top of assignments, getting started, or just keeping track of what’s due, this episode offers practical strategies to build systems that actually work. Dr. Taylor walks you through how to:Create positive, proactive communication with teachersSet up simple organizational tools that reduce overwhelmUse digital tools like Focus Keeper and Freedom to promote focus and independenceEstablish accountability routines—without constant conflictYou’ll also learn how to tailor these systems for different age levels, and what to do if your child already has a 504 plan or IEP. Start the school year with clarity, confidence, and a plan that helps your child thrive.

In this episode of the ADHD Connect Podcast, Dr. Tish Taylor dives into one of the most common (and often frustrating) challenges for families of kids with ADHD: transitions. From big shifts like heading back to school, to daily transitions like turning off a video game or getting out the door in the morning, Dr. Tish explains why these moments are so tough—and what you can do to make them smoother. You'll walk away with practical strategies for easing both everyday transitions and seasonal changes, while building your child’s independence and confidence along the way.

In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores the importance of flexible thinking in children and teens with ADHD. Many kids with ADHD struggle with black-and-white thinking—seeing things as either all good or all bad, fair or unfair, right or wrong. This kind of rigid thinking often fuels emotional outbursts, frustration, and conflict, even as kids get older.Dr. Taylor shares three common real-life examples—feeling lied to, thinking something’s unfair, or believing “I’m just bad”—and explains how these patterns are rooted in cognitive rigidity.You’ll learn practical, developmentally appropriate strategies to help your child move from either/or thinking to “gray zone” thinking. Dr. Taylor also walks through helpful tools like active listening, using visual metaphors (like a telescope!), and separating thoughts from feelings—all of which can build flexibility and resilience. Whether you're a parent, educator, or clinician, this episode offers grounded insight and hope for helping kids learn to see the bigger picture, manage their emotions, and connect more effectively with others.Looking for practical tools to support your child’s flexible thinking and emotional growth?Visit the ADHD Store for printable guides, visual supports, and parent-friendly resources designed to help kids build self-awareness, manage big emotions, and develop real-world coping skills.Start exploring today at TishTaylor.com/adhd-store — everything is created with busy parents and growing minds in mind!

In this heartfelt episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor speaks directly to parents and caregivers who may be feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or uncertain about their child’s future with ADHD.With warmth and clarity, she explores what it means to hold on to hope—even when things feel tough. Dr. Tish shares four empowering strategies to help you shift your mindset, focus on short-term progress while keeping an eye on long-term goals, build on your child’s strengths, and create a support team that truly understands your child’s unique needs.Whether your child was just diagnosed or you’re deep in the trenches, this episode offers a grounded reminder: there is always a path forward. If you’ve been searching for reassurance and practical guidance, this episode is for you.

Sibling conflict is a part of growing up—but when ADHD is involved, those moments can escalate quickly. In this episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores why sibling dynamics can be especially challenging in families with ADHD and how to handle them with calm, confidence, and clarity. You'll learn:Why children with ADHD may react more intensely to their siblingsHow to coach and model better responses in real time and outside the heat of the momentThe importance of grounding your approach in family valuesHow reinforcement systems can reduce conflict and build cooperationReal-life examples and personal stories to help bring these strategies to lifeWhether you're dealing with toy-taking, interrupting, or purposeful button-pushing, this episode offers actionable tips to help your kids develop stronger social skills—and your family develop more peace.

Video games are a big part of many kids’ lives—but when your child has ADHD, is gaming just a fun outlet, or something more concerning? In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor explores the growing research around ADHD and video gaming, sharing both the potential benefits and the warning signs parents and professionals should know. You’ll learn:What the science says about gaming and ADHD (2019–2023 literature review)When video gaming may be helping (think: processing speed, emotional regulation)When it crosses into problematic use or addictionHow to spot red flags like sleep disruption, withdrawal, or emotional overdependenceWhy kids with ADHD may be more vulnerable to addictive behaviorsWhat questions to ask and how to foster a healthier balance🎯 Especially timely for summer, when gaming time tends to increase, this episode equips parents, educators, and caregivers with real insight—not hype—to help kids develop more mindful screen habits. 🧩 Resources Mentioned:Preventing a Video Game Addiction in Kids (YouTube)Cleveland Clinic: Video Game AddictionMayo Clinic: Are Video Games and Screens Another Addiction?Screen Sanity – Helping families create healthier screen habitsFor more ADHD tools, parenting support, or to submit a question for the podcast, visit TishTaylor.com or follow on Instagram @DrTishTaylor. Subscribe for new episodes every week—because when parents feel empowered, kids thrive.

Summer can feel like a welcome break—until it suddenly doesn’t. If you’ve ever found yourself mid-July wondering how things got so off track, this episode is for you. Dr. Tish Taylor walks you through a practical ADHD Summer Checklist to help your family plan ahead and stay grounded through the ups and downs of the season.From schedules and sleep to sibling dynamics, screen time, and social connections, this episode offers a calming reset and real-world strategies for keeping your child regulated and your household running more smoothly.Whether you jot down her list or make one of your own, the key is starting with intention. Let’s make this a summer where your child with ADHD can thrive—and you can breathe a little easier.

In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor reflects on Paul Tough’s recent article in The New York Times Magazine titled “Have We Been Thinking About ADHD All Wrong?” With clarity and compassion, she unpacks the key questions raised in the piece—like why ADHD diagnoses and medication use are rising, what we really mean by “ADHD,” and whether it’s neurological, environmental, or something more complex.Drawing on her experience conducting thousands of evaluations and supporting families across clinical and school settings, Dr. Taylor discusses how ADHD is currently diagnosed, the significance of executive function development, and the importance of viewing ADHD on a continuum. She also dives into the challenges of diagnosing milder or more situational cases, the impact of co-occurring conditions, and the critical need to look at patterns over time.Whether you're a parent, educator, or professional, this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful perspective—reminding us that asking good questions and staying open to new understanding is part of what it means to truly support kids with ADHD. Mentioned in this episode:The TRAIT Tool: A self-monitoring and observation tool to track patterns and support clearer understandingDr. Taylor’s earlier episode on co-occurring conditionsReflections on screens, stressors, and environmental influences on attention

In this episode, Dr. Tish Taylor explores the many conditions that commonly co-occur with ADHD—and how to tell the difference. From oppositional behaviors and emotional outbursts to anxiety, depression, learning disorders, and even autism spectrum traits, ADHD rarely shows up alone. In fact, only about 20% of individuals diagnosed with ADHD have no additional diagnoses. So what does that mean for understanding symptoms, getting the right support, or seeking a full evaluation? Dr. Tish breaks down:The most common co-occurring diagnoses seen alongside ADHDHow overlapping symptoms can make diagnosis confusingWhy emotional dysregulation is a key area of concernWhat to look for when autism and ADHD traits appear togetherWhen to consider seeking a comprehensive evaluationThis episode is full of insight for parents, educators, clinicians, and anyone looking to better understand the complexities of ADHD and its connected conditions. 📬 Have questions or want to connect?Visit: www.tishtaylor.comEmail: [email protected]

In this first episode of ADHD Connect, Dr. Tish Taylor explores a crucial topic: not every child with ADHD is the same. While ADHD comes with core traits, each child’s experience is unique, requiring personalized approaches to support and intervention.Dr. Tish breaks down the different ADHD presentations, explains how individual traits shape behavior and learning and introduces her ADHD Individual Trait Tool—a free resource to help parents and educators better understand a child’s specific needs. Learn how ADHD traits vary from child to childDiscover why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t workGet access to the ADHD Individual Trait Tool to pinpoint key challengesVisit TishTaylor.com to download the free tool and explore expert-led resources in the ADHD Store!