See How Creativity Thrives in Kids with ADHD

If your child has ADHD, you may notice they think outside the box and thrive on creative tasks. Learn more about the link between ADHD and creativity: 

What does the research say about creativity and ADHD? 

For decades, researchers have tried to understand the connection between ADHD and creativity. Studies have been conducted in lab settings, where participants with ADHD and without ADHD complete behavioral tasks designed to measure the cognitive processes that might underlie creative expression. Neuroimaging (fMRI) studies have looked for brain-based connections between ADHD and creativity, and other studies have taken a more real-world approach by looking for differences in the number of creative achievements in adults with ADHD and adults without ADHD.  

The findings so far have been mixed and inconclusive, with some of the most promising results coming from the studies that have focused on real-life creative achievements. The mixed results don’t necessarily mean that there isn’t a connection between ADHD and creativity, but they do show us how much there still is to be learned about ADHD.   

How can I help my child use their creativity to their advantage? 

Children with ADHD who are creative thinkers are inherently at an advantage if given the opportunity to develop skills such as creative writing, art and music. If your child is passionate about certain creative activities, provide them with as many opportunities as possible to develop their interests and talents in those areas. When children with ADHD are doing something that interests them, they’ll have a much easier time staying focused and taking pride in what they do. Talk to their teachers about their interests and ask for opportunities to incorporate these interests and skills into their classwork and homework. Sign them up for creative extracurricular activities where they’ll have the opportunity to connect with children who share their interests.   

How can I encourage my child’s creative capabilities? 

If your child seems creative but hasn’t found their passion yet, provide them with opportunities to try new activities. Start by talking with your child about their interests. Summer or long breaks during school time are great times to try different activities, so explore inexpensive, low-commitment in-person classes at community and recreation centers or online classes and programs. The goal is to encourage your child to try a few different activities so they can learn about themselves and the things they enjoy. Once they find something that truly sparks their interest, they may be ready to dive in and commit to more classes or a more formal program. 

Opportunities for creative expression are important for all children, and especially for those with ADHD. Encourage your child to develop their creativity at home, at school and through extracurricular activities. Over time, you’ll see their confidence grow as they strengthen their talents and connect with other children who share the same interests.  

Mary Rooney, Ph.D., is a licensed, board-certified clinical psychologist. Dr. Rooney currently serves at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the largest scientific organization in the world dedicated to research focused on the understanding, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders and the promotion of mental health. She is an established researcher and has published numerous academic articles in the field of psychology. Previously, she was a clinical psychologist the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) and at the ADHD and Disruptive Behavior Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute (NY). She earned her doctorate from the University of Maryland, College Park

Dr. Rooney specializes in the evaluation and treatment of ADHD and co-occurring behavioral, anxiety, and mood disorders. A strong advocate for those with attention and behavior problems, Dr. Rooney is committed to developing and providing comprehensive, cutting-edge treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of each child and adolescent.

Dr. Rooney is the author of the popular Kids Can Focus blog, providing practical advice and easy-to-use tools for parents and teachers helping children with ADHD. Dr. Rooney has worked closely with Huntington Learning Centers to create its ADHD tutoring and support programs for students and teachers.

About Huntington  

Huntington Learning Center is the nation’s leading tutoring and test prep provider. We offer customized programs in person, online, and hybrid options. Our certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington’s programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.HuntingtonHelps.com and for franchising opportunities, visit www.HuntingtonFranchise.com.