7 Behavioral Parent Training Strategies That Support Kids with ADHD
Parenting a child with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right tools and a consistent approach, it’s absolutely possible to create a more peaceful and cooperative home environment. Behavior therapy doesn’t require perfection — just patience, clarity, and follow-through. These 7 strategies can help bring more structure, predictability, and calm into your daily life.
If you're parenting a child with ADHD, you’ve probably already done some form of behavior therapy without even realizing it. Giving a time-out for talking back or prepping your child before entering a high-stimulation situation? Yep, that’s part of it.
Behavior therapy isn’t some complicated process that only professionals can handle. It’s really about setting clear, specific rules and following through with consistent consequences — both positive and negative. The goal is to help your child build self-control and learn what’s expected in different situations.
1. Make the Rules Crystal Clear
Kids with ADHD do best when expectations are easy to understand and always the same. Don’t just say, “Get ready for school.” Instead, break it down: brush teeth, get dressed, pack lunch, grab backpack. Posting checklists around the house can be super helpful. Go over the rules together and check in often to keep things fresh. Repetition and consistency are your best friends here.
2. Give Simple, Direct Instructions
Start by making sure you’ve got your child’s attention. Then, be specific. Instead of “be good,” try, “Stand next to me and keep your hands to yourself.” Let them know what will happen if they don’t follow through — and always stick to it. Consistency builds trust and structure.
3. Don’t Expect Perfection
Progress takes time, and no one — child or parent — is perfect. Aim to notice and praise the good stuff three to five times more often than you correct the not-so-great behavior. Celebrate small wins and build from there.
And if you find yourself nagging a lot, take a step back. Maybe your expectations need a little adjusting — it’s okay to ease up sometimes.
4. Use “When/Then” Statements
This trick helps kids connect their responsibilities with their rewards. For example, “When you finish your homework, then you can play your game.” For younger children, try to link the reward as closely in time to the task as possible so the connection is clear.
5. Create a Simple Point or Token System
A visual reward system can work wonders. Try something like a jar and some marbles — add one for every good behavior, take one out for every rule broken. At the end of the day, your child earns a small reward based on the number of marbles left. Then reset for tomorrow. It’s simple, visual, and easy to manage.
6. Adjust Your Approach as Your Child Grows
What works for a six-year-old might not work for an eleven-year-old. Time-outs might lose their impact as kids get older, so you may need to switch to chores, limiting screen time, or negotiating privileges.
Older kids and teens also do better when they have a say in the process. Talk about goals and rewards together — like earning extra driving time or hanging out with friends in exchange for pitching in around the house or keeping up with schoolwork.
7. Team Up with Teachers
Consistency between home and school is key. Ask your child’s teacher to help create a simple daily report card. It can track goals like finishing assignments or participating in class. At home, reward good days with something your child enjoys — even small things like extra screen time or choosing what music to play in the car.
For older students, consider asking the guidance counselor to organize a weekly check-in with all of their teachers. You can even use a school planner to track behavior and follow through with support at home.
Behavior Parent Training Support in Tampa
Helping a child with ADHD build better self-control and follow-through doesn’t happen overnight — but with clear rules, consistent consequences, and a focus on positive reinforcement, real progress is possible.
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of how to make these strategies work for your family, you’re not alone. At Tampa Pediatric Psychology, our licensed child psychologists and therapists are here to support you. We specialize in behavioral parent training and work closely with families to develop realistic, effective plans that fit your child’s needs and your family’s routines. Whether you’re looking for a few helpful tweaks or more in-depth guidance, we’re here to help you navigate this journey with confidence and care. When you’re ready, contact us, we’re here to help.