Childhood ADHD in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that affects a child’s behavior, attention, and learning. Children with ADHD may have trouble concentrating, can be easily distracted, and may also be impulsive and overactive. ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, laziness, or lack of discipline. It is a medical condition that can be effectively managed with the right support.

In Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, many families seek ADHD evaluation and care through local providers such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

How ADHD Feels for Children

Many children with ADHD in Grand Rapids describe feeling:

  • Out of control or “always on the go”
  • Different from other kids in their class
  • Misunderstood by teachers or classmates
  • Lonely or frustrated when they “get in trouble” often

With understanding, consistent support, and appropriate treatment, children with ADHD can thrive at home, in Grand Rapids Public Schools and other local districts, and in the community.

What Is ADHD?

A Neurodevelopmental Disorder

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it is related to how the brain develops and functions. It can affect:

  • Attention and concentration
  • Impulse control (doing things without thinking first)
  • Activity level (being more active or restless than other children)
  • Emotional regulation (managing big feelings)
  • Social skills and relationships

ADHD is not a sign of low intelligence. Many children with ADHD are bright, creative, and capable. With the right support, they can do very well in school and in life.

ADHD Symptoms in Children

All young children can be active, impulsive, or easily distracted at times, especially during long Michigan winters when outdoor play is limited. ADHD is considered when these behaviors:

  • Are more frequent and intense than in other children of the same age
  • Occur in more than one setting (for example, at home, school, and activities)
  • Have lasted at least six months
  • Interfere with everyday life (school, friendships, family life)

Health professionals look at two main symptom areas: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Inattention Symptoms

A child with inattention symptoms may regularly:

  • Not give close attention to details or make careless mistakes in schoolwork or activities
  • Have difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play
  • Seem not to listen when spoken to directly
  • Not follow through on instructions and fail to finish schoolwork or chores
  • Have trouble organizing tasks and activities
  • Avoid or dislike tasks that require ongoing mental effort (such as homework)
  • Lose things needed for tasks (toys, assignments, pencils, books)
  • Be easily distracted by sights, sounds, or thoughts
  • Be forgetful in daily activities

If a child has six or more of these symptoms for at least six months, to a degree that is not typical for their age, they may meet criteria for the inattentive type of ADHD.

Hyperactivity Symptoms

A child with hyperactivity symptoms may often:

  • Fidget with hands or feet or squirm in their seat
  • Leave their seat in the classroom when remaining seated is expected
  • Run about or climb in situations where it is not appropriate
  • Have difficulty playing or taking part in leisure activities quietly
  • Seem “on the go” or act as if “driven by a motor”
  • Talk more than average

Impulsivity Symptoms

A child with impulsivity symptoms may often:

  • Blurt out answers before questions have been completed
  • Have difficulty waiting their turn
  • Interrupt or intrude on others (for example, cutting into conversations or games)

If a child has six or more hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms for at least six months, to a degree that is not typical for their age, they may meet criteria for the hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD.

Types of ADHD

Using established diagnostic criteria, a health professional can determine the ADHD type:

  • ADHD, combined type

    • Criteria met for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity for the past six months

  • ADHD, predominantly inattentive type

    • Criteria met for inattention, but not for hyperactivity-impulsivity, for the past six months

  • ADHD, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type

    • Criteria met for hyperactivity-impulsivity, but not for inattention, for the past six months

How ADHD Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

There is no single test (like a blood test or brain scan) that can diagnose ADHD. Diagnosis is based on a comprehensive evaluation.

Who Can Diagnose ADHD?

In Grand Rapids, ADHD assessments are commonly done by:

  • Pediatricians (for example, through Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health)
  • Child and adolescent psychiatrists
  • Child psychologists or neuropsychologists
  • Developmental-behavioral pediatricians
  • Behavioral health specialists at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital

What the Evaluation Includes

A specialist will collect information from:

  • Parents or caregivers
  • The child
  • Teachers and school staff (including school counselors or school psychologists)

The assessment may include:

  • A detailed history of the child’s behavior at home, school, and in the community
  • Information about school performance and behavior reports
  • Any history of trauma, illness, or major life changes
  • Family history of ADHD or mental health conditions
  • Standardized ADHD rating scales and questionnaires
  • Screening for other conditions that can look like or occur with ADHD, such as:
    • Anxiety disorders
    • Learning disorders
    • Mood disorders
    • Autism spectrum disorder
    • Trauma-related conditions

To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must:

  • Be present in two or more settings (for example, home and school)
  • Clearly interfere with social, academic, or family functioning
  • Not be better explained by another condition (such as anxiety, depression, or a dissociative or personality disorder)

What Causes ADHD?

The Exact Cause Is Not Known

The leading theory is that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder involving differences in certain brain regions and in how brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) work.

Contributing factors may include:

  • Genetics

    • ADHD tends to run in families. Research suggests certain genes may increase risk.

  • Prenatal and early life factors

    • Exposure to substances like tobacco or alcohol during pregnancy
    • Premature birth or low birth weight
    • Some pregnancy or birth complications

  • Environment and experiences

    • Early trauma or chronic stress
    • Lack of secure early attachment (for example, if a baby does not bond with a caregiver, or experiences traumatic separations)

Parenting style does not cause ADHD, but consistent, supportive parenting can make symptoms easier or harder to manage.

ADHD and Life in Grand Rapids, MI

Living in West Michigan can bring some unique considerations for families managing ADHD:

  • Seasonal changes and long winters

    • Cold, snowy winters and shorter daylight hours can limit outdoor play and physical activity, which are important outlets for children with ADHD. Indoor movement breaks and structured activities can help.

  • School environment

    • Children in Grand Rapids Public Schools and surrounding districts (Rockford, Kentwood, Wyoming, Forest Hills, etc.) may benefit from Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 Plans for ADHD support.

  • Local support

    • The Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health resources can help connect families with mental health services, parenting programs, and community support.

Caring for a Child with ADHD

Parenting a child with ADHD can be rewarding but also challenging and exhausting at times. It is important to remember:

  • ADHD is a medical condition, not a behavior choice
  • Your child is not “bad” or “lazy”
  • You deserve support just as much as your child does

Practical Strategies at Home

It may help if you:

  • Develop consistent routines

    • Keep regular times for waking up, meals, homework, play, and bedtime.
    • Use visual schedules or charts, especially for younger children.

  • Keep rules clear and simple

    • State rules positively (“Use walking feet inside” instead of “Don’t run”).
    • Give calm, clear reminders.

  • Give clear, short instructions

    • Get physically close to your child and make eye contact.
    • Give only one or two instructions at a time.
    • Ask your child to repeat the instruction back to you.

  • Use positive reinforcement

    • Notice and praise your child when they follow directions or show effort.
    • Use reward charts or token systems for younger children.

  • Be consistent with discipline

    • Use predictable, fair consequences.
    • For younger children (about 18 months to 6 years), brief “time out” can be helpful.
    • For older children, use logical consequences (for example, losing screen time if homework is not completed).

  • Build in movement

    • Regular physical activity can reduce restlessness and improve focus.
    • Take advantage of local parks, Grand River trails, indoor recreation centers, and school sports or clubs.

  • Take breaks as a caregiver

    • Arrange respite or help from family, friends, or local programs.
    • Caring for yourself helps you care better for your child.

Try to ensure that everyone who cares for your child—parents, grandparents, babysitters, teachers, coaches—uses a consistent approach and works as a team.

Managing ADHD: Treatment Options

There is no “cure” for ADHD, but there are effective treatments that can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.

1. Behavioral and Psychological Therapies

Common approaches include:

  • Behavior therapy

    • Helps children learn new skills, improve self-control, and reduce problem behaviors.
    • Often includes parent training to support behavior strategies at home.

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

    • Helps older children and teens manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
    • Can address low self-esteem, anxiety, or frustration that can come with ADHD.

  • Counseling

    • Offers a safe space to talk about challenges at school, with friends, or at home.
    • Can support emotional regulation and social skills.

  • Parenting skills training

    • Teaches parents strategies to encourage positive behaviors and manage difficult ones.
    • Often available through local mental health providers and hospital-based programs in Grand Rapids.

2. ADHD Medications

Medications are often an important part of ADHD treatment. In Grand Rapids, ADHD medications are typically prescribed by:

  • Pediatricians
  • Child psychiatrists
  • Family medicine doctors with ADHD experience

The most commonly used ADHD medications are stimulant medications. They can:

  • Reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity
  • Improve attention and focus
  • Help children work, learn, and participate more successfully at school and home

Non-stimulant medications are also available and may be used when stimulants are not effective or cause side effects.

Medication decisions should always be made in partnership with a qualified health professional, with regular follow-up to monitor benefits and side effects.

3. Additional Supports

Other helpful strategies include:

  • School accommodations (IEP or 504 Plan)
  • Social skills groups
  • Stress management techniques for both children and parents
  • Support groups for families living with ADHD

ADHD Beyond Childhood

ADHD was once thought to only affect children, but we now know that symptoms can continue into adolescence and adulthood. Teens and adults with ADHD may continue to have:

  • Inattention (difficulty organizing, staying focused, finishing tasks)
  • Impulsivity (interrupting, acting quickly without thinking, “short fuse”)
  • Overactivity or restlessness
  • Challenges with emotional regulation and social situations

Early diagnosis and support in childhood—through local resources in Grand Rapids—can make it easier for individuals with ADHD to succeed in high school, college, and adult life.

Local ADHD Resources in Grand Rapids, MI

If you are concerned your child may have ADHD, start by talking with:

  • Your child’s primary care provider or pediatrician

    • Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and other local clinics all have pediatric services.

  • Child psychologists, psychiatrists, or behavioral health clinics

    • Many are affiliated with Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and other major systems.

You can also explore:

  • Kent County Health Department

    • Information on children’s mental health resources in the Grand Rapids area.

  • School resources

    • School counselors, psychologists, and special education teams in Grand Rapids Public Schools and surrounding districts can support evaluation and accommodations.

If you are unsure where to start, call your child’s doctor’s office and ask for a referral for an ADHD evaluation in Grand Rapids.

Key Points About Childhood ADHD in Grand Rapids

  • The exact cause of ADHD is not known, but it is a real, medical neurodevelopmental condition.
  • ADHD is not caused by bad parenting or low intelligence.
  • For ADHD to be diagnosed, symptoms must be clear, persistent, and present in most areas of a child’s life (home, school, and social settings).
  • Common symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, such as talking more than average, interrupting others, and difficulty focusing.
  • Stimulant medications are the most commonly used ADHD medicines and can be very effective when monitored by a healthcare professional.
  • Behavioral therapies, parent training, school support, and community resources in Grand Rapids, MI can greatly improve outcomes for children with ADHD and their families.

If you live in the Grand Rapids area and suspect your child may have ADHD, reaching out early for evaluation and support can make a meaningful difference in your child’s life.