Should I Put My Child on ADHD Medication? A Guide for Parents Navigating the Decision

Making the choice to medicate your child for ADHD is deeply personal, and understandably, a difficult one. Here’s what Canadian parents should know: from practical tools and evidence-based interventions to strategies that help empower your child with understanding and autonomy.

ADHD and Medication for Children: The Decision Many Parents Face

If you're a parent of a child or teen diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), you’ve likely asked yourself: Should I put my child on ADHD medication?

It’s a complicated question, and there’s no universal answer. But the good news is: you don’t have to make this decision alone or uninformed. There is extensive research in this topic and many clinicians and professionals that can support you and your family. At our clinic, we work with families to consider the child’s needs, family goals, and the evidence behind ADHD care. The decision is entirely up to you, but our goal is to support you in making this decision with confidence.

Understanding ADHD symptoms: 

Regardless of whether or not you are planning to trial medication with your child, the most important first and early step is to understand ADHD symptoms and how they present in your child. This is important because medications target ADHD symptoms ... and in order to understand if ADHD symptoms are improving, we need to ensure the adults in the child’s life have a solid understanding of them. 

We recommend working with ADHD-specific clinicians (e.g., occupational therapists or psychotherapists) to learn more about your child, their ADHD symptoms, and their unique needs. You can read our post here that discusses what support can look like beyond a diagnosis.  

We also recommend using our free resource library to find clinician-approved resources on ADHD in order to learn about the symptoms your child may experience. 

Lastly, we recommend a helpful resource for parents, teachers, and other adults in a child’s life: the Behaviour Reflection Tool (a free download we created!). This tool, used alongside tailored support from an occupational therapist, can be an excellent starting point for understanding the factors that influence ADHD symptoms and a child’s behaviours. Once these factors are better understood, adults can more effectively engage in co-regulation to support the child. You can learn more and access the tool for free by downloading it here.

What the Research Says About ADHD Medication for Children

Now that you’ve explored your child’s unique ADHD symptoms and begun to understand their behaviours, the next step is to look at the intervention options that are backed by research. For many families, this includes considering medication. Understanding what the evidence says can help you weigh potential benefits against risks, and guide you in making a decision that feels right for your child and family. Most health care providers do suggest, prescribe, or recommend ADHD medication for school-aged children. It is important to understand why this is the case. 

When we look at research on ADHD and children, stimulant medications (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta, Vyvanse) are among the most effective tools for managing core ADHD symptoms and teens. The research tells us that ADHD medications can improve attention, reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity, and enhance day to day functioning including in the classroom and socially. Additionally, studies have shown improved self esteem for the child and reduced family stress when symptoms are better regulated. The research also tells us that non-stimulant medications (e.g., Strattera) may also be appropriate, especially in cases of coexisting anxiety or when stimulants are not tolerated.  Note: Your physician and medical team can discuss which may be the best option for you, if you decide that trialing medication is the right decision for your child. 

That said, medication is not a “cure”. It’s one tool in a larger toolkit. Not every child responds in the same way, and some children may experience side effects that outweigh the benefits. The decision is highly individual, which is why ongoing monitoring and professional guidance are essential. 

It’s Okay to Feel Unsure

It’s normal for parents to feel hesitant about starting their child on medication. Common worries include:

• Side effects (e.g., sleep changes, appetite suppression, mood shifts)

• Impact on personality (fear that medication may “dull” a child’s natural spark)

• Long-term effects (uncertainty about safety over years of use)
  
  These concerns are valid, and you don’t need to dismiss them to move forward. Talking openly with your child’s doctor, pharmacist, or ADHD clinician can help you weigh these concerns against the potential benefits for your child’s daily life.
  Remember: starting medication is not a permanent decision. You can trial it, monitor closely, and adjust (or discontinue) as needed.

You Are in the Driver’s Seat

As a parent, you have the final say in whether your child starts medication. It can feel overwhelming, but know that you don’t have to do this alone. Involving your child (in age-appropriate ways) in conversations about how they feel, what’s working, and what isn’t can also help them feel more empowered and respected.

Think of it this way: you are gathering information, making the best decision you can right now, and keeping the door open for adjustments later.

Beyond Medication: Other Supports That Make a Difference

Whether or not you choose medication, children with ADHD benefit greatly from holistic support strategies. These may include:

• Occupational therapy to support self-regulation, executive functioning, and sensory processing skills.

• Psychotherapy (e.g., CBT, parent coaching, family therapy) to develop coping strategies and strengthen family support.

• School accommodations (individualized education plans)

• Lifestyle factors like regular physical activity, consistent sleep, balanced nutrition, and limited screen time.

• Parent support through coaching, support groups, or counseling to help manage stress and foster positive parenting strategies.
  

  Medication is just one piece of the puzzle, these strategies work best when layered together.

Practical ADHD Tools: Tracking Progress and Side Effects

If you decide to trial medication, tracking your child’s response is key. We’ve created a free tool available here to support you in this process. Our Medication Log includes: 

• A symptom tracker to help you and your child’s care team monitor ADHD symptoms over time and assess whether medication is making a difference

• A Side Effect Tracker to log potential side effects (e.g., changes in appetite, sleep, or mood) to discuss with your doctor.

We recommend involving your child when filling out these trackers to support them in feeling involved in their own care. 

There is no single “right” decision when it comes to ADHD medication. The right choice is the one that reflects your child’s needs, your family’s values, and the best available evidence. Whether you choose medication, alternative supports, or a combination of both, what matters most is creating an environment where your child feels understood, supported, and empowered.

Remember: you don’t have to decide alone. Lean on your child’s healthcare team, your support networks, and resources like the ones we’ve shared to guide you along the way.

Free ADHD resources and Tools can be found here:

• Resource Library: Understanding ADHD

• Behaviour Reflection Tool (Understanding Behaviour Through Coregulation and Context)

• Medication Log and Symptom & Side effect Tracker

• Support After an ADHD Diagnosis

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical or healthcare advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance. Always consult with your healthcare provider or care team to determine what is best for you or your child.