Parenting a child with ADHD presents unique challenges but also special opportunities to shape their character. By focusing on key qualities such as diligence, perseverance, and thoroughness, you can help your child develop essential life skills. Walk with me as we explore practical ways to foster these traits and integrate biblical guidance to support and uplift your efforts.
Keep in mind that ADHD is a biological challenge taking place in the brain that presents with three main symptoms: lack of focus, high energy, and impulsivity. Although medication may be an option for some, a heart-based approach uses character development to address these and other challenges kids with ADHD might have. Here are some good ways to build new and powerful character qualities for these children.
Diligence: Encouraging Consistent Effort
Diligence means to work hard and is crucial for children with ADHD who often struggle to maintain focus. To foster diligence, break tasks into manageable steps. For example, instead of having your child clean their entire room at once, have them start by putting away a few toys and praise them for completing this task. But the work is not the task, it’s focusing while on the task. Small wins boost confidence and improve focus.As you help your child work through small tasks, encourage them with words like, “You did a great job staying on task!” Over time, as their ability to focus grows, they will be able to take on bigger responsibilities with the same diligence.
Perseverance: Developing Grit
Perseverance means hanging in there even after you feel like quitting. Children with ADHD may quickly give up because doing something they don’t want to do takes work. But teaching them to endure can strengthen their resilience. Again, it’s not about the task, it’s about the character learned while doing the task. Another strategy is to celebrate persistence over perfection. If your child attempts a task but doesn’t complete it perfectly, praise their effort and encourage them to keep going. When they see that their hard work is valued, even if it’s imperfect, they’ll be more motivated to persevere in future challenges.
Thoroughness: Attention to Detail
Thoroughness involves attention to detail and completing tasks well. For a child with ADHD, rushing through tasks can be a common issue. Teach thoroughness by setting clear expectations and walking through tasks together to highlight the importance of each step. Utilize visual aids like checklists to help your child track and complete every part of a task. To teach thoroughness, start by helping your child understand the importance of details. For example, when they clean their room, explain that “clean”means not only putting toys away but also making the bed and organizing their desk. By setting clear expectations, you help them understand what thoroughness looks like.
Trust God in the Process
Building these character traits in a child with ADHD is a gradual process, requiring patience and persistent guidance. Celebrate each step of progress and remember that training is more powerful than correction alone. Remember, you are not alone in this journey — God is with you, supporting and strengthening your efforts. Although Scripture memory is hard for kids with ADHD, it’s one of the therapeutic activities that helps them form new brain patterns. You might start with Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (NIV). This verse can be a powerful motivator for children learning to push through frustration and to persist in their efforts.
It’s not easy working with a child with ADHD, but God has a special plan for these children, and strategic work in their lives can produce huge results. Look for ways to incorporate these strategies into your daily routines. Which of these qualities does your child need the most support with? How can you creatively reinforce these traits this week?
Remember that these kids learn best through activity, not dialogue, so keep the words short and the activities engaging. That will maximize your efforts.
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