No two children are exactly alike, especially when it comes to how they focus, learn and explore the world. While some children can sit still, concentrate, and follow instructions with ease, others may struggle in ways that are often misunderstood. For some, staying seated and tuning out distractions can be genuinely overwhelming.
This is often the case for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain works, causing persistent issues with inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity
Within the UK alone, it is estimated that over 2.4 million people have ADHD including those without a diagnosis. Of these an estimated 741,000 are children and young people aged 5 to 24.
Despite certain stigma that stems from misconceptions and stereotypes, ADHD is not a sign of laziness or lack of discipline. Instead, it’s rooted in the way a child’s brain processes information and with the right support, they often flourish.
Learning to navigate ADHD can be tough for both children and parents alike, but with a wider understanding of ADHD itself and the strategies to help manage it, can make all the difference.
Common Challenges of ADHD
There isn’t a specific way that ADHD ‘should’ look as it has a wide range of characteristics and traits, which are broken down into three categories: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive and combined.
While some may tick the boxes for both meaning they have the combined type, others may only show signs of either hyperactivity/impulsivity or inattention. There are also differences in how each type presents in girls and boys.
| Impulsive | Inattentive | Hyperactivity |
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Ways to Support Children with ADHD
Supporting a child with ADHD isn’t about fixing their behaviour, it’s about understanding their unique needs and giving them the tools they need to succeed. With the right strategies and support from parents and caregivers, children can learn to navigate challenges and thrive in day-to-day life.
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Create clear and predictable routines.
Routines provide structure, predictability and a sense of control, which can help children with ADHD manage their symptoms, improve focus, and reduce stress. Consistent daily routines such as morning checklists and visual timetables can reduce anxiety and help them to stay on track.
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Establish calming bedtime routines
Many children with ADHD struggle to ‘switch off’ at night because their minds stay active long after bedtime. Creating a predictable wind-down routine such as dimming lights and reading together can make evenings feel more settled.
Incorporating supplements into a nighttime routine can also support with this. Vitawell's Little Dreamers Gummies have been thoughtfully formulated and created with bedtime routines in mind and are perfect for helping children wind down before bed. Made with magnesium and green tea with herbal extracts of chamomile and lemon balm, these gummies are a great addition to a nighttime routine.
Several studies have shown that magnesium levels are lower than recommended in children with ADHD and magnesium supplements can improve their symptoms such as hyperactivity, reduced attention and impulsivity.
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Support healthy growth and development
Vitamins play an important role in how the body functions day to day, something especially important for busy growing bodies. Supplements like Vitawell's Little Bones Gummies are packed with nutrients such as calcium, vitamin K and vitamin D, all of which contribute to healthy bone development and supporting the immune system.
While supplements don’t treat ADHD, ensuring children get enough vitamins and minerals can support their general health, making it easier for them to cope with everyday challenges. Children most at risk of calcium and vitamin D deficiency are those who have restrictive diets such as vegan/vegetarian or dairy-free - many dairy products and some foods are fortified with vitamin D
The NHS recommends children aged from 1 year to adulthood take a Vitamin D supplement of 10 mcg (400IU) per day, throughout the year.
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Encourage balanced eating
Studies have shown that children with ADHD are more predisposed to crave sugar, due to the surge of dopamine that sugar delivers to the brain. As a result, they may naturally reach for sweet treats while turning away from more nutritious options such as vegetables, whole grains or fish, meaning that they are not getting enough of the nutrients that they require. Some research has also linked ADHD to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. These are known to be key cofactors for the production of neurotransmitters. Hyperactivity and impulsiveness have been associated with poorer nutritional intake in children.
In situations like this, a daily multivitamin can offer gentle support. Vitawell's Kids Multivitamin Gummies are designed to help fill small nutritional gaps and provide key nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, D, E and Niacin, supporting everyday wellbeing for children. With a naturally delicious strawberry flavour, it’s also an easy option for children who can be a little fussy about food.
Supporting a child with ADHD can be challenging for both children and parents and it is a journey that requires a lot of patience and understanding. By combining practical strategies, parents and caregivers can help children feel more confident, secure and capable in their day-to-day lives, helping them not just to manage their ADHD but thrive and reach their full potential.
If you think your child may have ADHD, or you need further support, please speak to your GP for help and guidance.
Check out the full range of Vitawell Kids Supplements.