The Brilliance of ADHD in Children
By Kelsie Howard, MCP, LPC
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting millions of children worldwide. When we hear "ADHD," many might picture a child who is hyperactive, impulsive, and struggles with attention. While these traits are common, they are not what define a child with ADHD.
When I think of ADHD, I envision a brain that is vibrant and alive, swirling with creativity, bravery, and empathy. It’s a mind full of possibilities—an imaginative landscape reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland or Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. These children see the world not just as it is, but as it could be, full of untapped potential and extraordinary ideas.
Yet, when I asked others what comes to mind when they hear "ADHD," the responses were far more limiting:
- "A child who has trouble focusing, hyperactive, impulsive, often viewed as a troublemaker."
- "Someone who struggles to sit still, easily distracted, and hypersensitive."
- "Overactive, restless, and impulsive, with difficulty following instructions."
- "Hyperactive, talkative, often in trouble."
- "A child more hyperactive than normal."
These descriptions, while common, barely scratch the surface of the vibrant world inside the minds of children with ADHD. Through my work with many ADHD children, I’ve come to see ADHD not as a deficit but as a form of brilliance. These children possess incredible strengths that often go unrecognized because it’s easy to focus solely on the challenges. But if we look deeper, we find that ADHD is magnificent.
Children with ADHD are often empathetic, brave, and curious. They are quick thinkers who, when something captures their interest, become deeply passionate. Their sense of humor is infectious, and their creativity knows no bounds. They have a big imagination and can see solutions to problems that others might never consider. They are adaptable, compassionate, and often think outside the box, bringing fresh perspectives to any situation.
As a parent of a daughter with ADHD, I witness this brilliance every day. Her room is a colorful explosion of art supplies—yarn, markers, colored pencils, beads, and cardboard—strewn about in what might seem like chaos to others. But to me, it’s a beautiful reflection of her mind. Hand her a box of random objects, and she’ll create something extraordinary. She’s full of energy, asks endless questions, and often forgets tasks—but she also dreams, imagines, and loves deeply. If I focused only on the challenges, I might miss the incredible gifts she has to offer. By nurturing her strengths, I help her grow into the creative, caring woman I believe she’s meant to be.
Children with ADHD should know that they can achieve greatness. Simone Biles, one of the most decorated gymnasts of all time, and Michael Phelps, a world-renowned swimmer, have both openly shared their struggles with ADHD. Phelps recalls being told by a teacher that he would never succeed, yet he found a way to channel his energy and focus into his passion for swimming, becoming an Olympic champion. He says, “If I could go back in time and tell my younger self something, I would tell him to believe what’s in his heart and never ever give up.” These two show that with the right support and belief in themselves, children with ADHD can reach extraordinary heights.
Every child with ADHD is unique. Some are active and brimming with energy, struggling with boundaries and social cues. Others might be quieter, their ADHD going unnoticed because they don’t cause disruptions. But underneath, they are battling to stay focused, often feeling anxious and overwhelmed. These children face challenges that can lead to a deep sense of shame, receiving an estimated 20,000 negative messages by age 10. But as Simone Biles says, "The challenges we face help define who we are. My challenge is also my superpower: ADHD."
As parents, educators, and caregivers, it’s our job to look beyond the challenges and recognize the extraordinary potential within these children. Let us celebrate the extraordinary minds of children with ADHD, nurturing their strengths and passions to help them become the superheroes they are meant to be.
This article was written by Kelsie Howard, MCP, LPC. Kelsie Howard is clinical member of our Staff at Transforming Life Counseling Center.
