5 Things Your ADHD Kid Means (But Forgets) to Tell You on Mother’s Day

Mother's Day could be one of the most over-marketed, over-hyped, and over-promoted holidays right now. And I am here to share the big secret! Are ya ready? Sitting down?

Calm yourself! Mom, do you have your tissues? The secret of what all mothers want is…

To be Noticed. To be thanked. 

We don’t need to over-complicate this too much! Our families are spending money on us (and yes we love the gifts), but all we really need is some consistent acknowledgment. 

Can I get a heck yes?!

But here’s the thing, when you're a mom to a kiddo with ADHD. You might just be crossing your fingers for a day without explosive meltdowns, outbursts, and inflexibility because they didn’t choose the restaurant. 

At this point, you might be so exhausted and defeated that going anywhere is off the table. 

But I’m here to tell ya mama, your kiddo with ADHD loves you, like a lot! And just like when they have trouble holding back from exploding, they also have trouble expressing how they actually feel about you! 

So this one’s for the mom who is always in her kiddo's corner!

Here are 5 things your ADHD kiddo meant to tell you this Mother’s Day: 

1. Thank You for Understanding Me: "Mom, you always try to understand me, even when I'm all over the place. I know it's not always easy, but you make me feel like I'm okay just the way I am."
2. I Love How You Keep Me Organized: "The way you help me stay organized and on track is a lifesaver. Your checklists and reminders really help me, even if I don't always show it."
3. Thanks for Believing in Me: "You always believe I can do great things, even when I mess up or get distracted. Knowing that you believe in me makes me feel like I can do anything."
4. I'm Sorry for the Tough Days: "I know there are days when I really test your patience, and I'm sorry. Thank you for sticking with me through the tantrums, the meltdowns, and everything else."
5. I Appreciate Your Calmness: "When I get overwhelmed or upset, you stay so calm. It helps me feel safe and helps me calm down too. You have this magic way of making everything better."

They might not thank you this Mother's Day, but someday they will—whether through their words or actions. Until then, I’m here to remind you just how much you mean!

Originally featured in ADDitude Magazine