13 Must-Read Parenting Books for Kids with ADHD
Parenting a child with ADHD or emotional regulation challenges can be difficult, and parents often come to us with questions such as: “Am I missing something?” “Am I giving them the right tools? “How will this impact their future?”
The right strategies and resources can support growth—not just for your child, but for you as a parent. This curated book list offers practical tips and a deeper understanding, no matter the stage of your journey. Whether you’re guiding a curious preschooler, helping an energetic grade-schooler stay focused, or navigating the complex emotions of the teenage years, these titles provide strategies, empathy, and encouragement to help you feel confident and connected every step of the way.
Want a Summary Sheet?
Download a printable reading list with book recommendations organized by age with easy visuals to reference.
Preschool (Ages 3–5)
How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen — Joanna Faber & Julie King [Communication]
Gentle scripts and playful strategies for turning meltdowns into teachable moments.
The Yes Brain — Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson [Insight]
Focuses on curiosity, resilience, and emotional flexibility, encouraging a growth mindset from the start.
Early Elementary (Ages 6–8)
Smart but Scattered — Peg Dawson & Richard Guare [Strategy]
Step-by-step tools to strengthen planning, organization, and emotional control.
Raising Human Beings — Ross W. Greene [Communication]
Uses Collaborative Problem Solving to replace power struggles with respectful, shared solutions.
ADHD Is Awesome — Penn & Kim Holderness [Insight/Motivation]
A lighthearted, relatable look at ADHD, mixing humor with encouragement for parents and kids.
Late Elementary / Tweens (Ages 9–12)
What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew — Dr. Sharon Saline [Insight]
A compassionate view into your child’s inner world.
Taking Charge of ADHD — Russell A. Barkley [Strategy]
Clear, research-based guidance with structured plans for home and school success.
8 Keys to Parenting Children with ADHD — Cindy Goldrich [Strategy/Support]
Practical tools paired with an encouraging tone to keep parents motivated.
Teens (Ages 13–17)
Brainstorm — Daniel J. Siegel [Insight]
Explains the teenage brain and reframes challenges as opportunities for growth.
How to Talk So Teens Will Listen & Listen So Teens Will Talk — Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish [Communication]
Non-confrontational scripts to keep conversations open, even during tense moments.
Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety — John Duffy [Insight/Support]
Addresses modern pressures like social media and school stress while emphasizing emotional connection.
All Ages
The Whole-Brain Child — Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson [Insight]
Shows how brain development shapes behavior, with strategies to build emotional regulation.
No-Drama Discipline — Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson [Strategy/Communication]
Shifts discipline from punishment to teaching, deepening understanding and connection.
How to Use This List
Depending on your journey, Mix and match different books to provide support in various areas:
Insight – Understand why your child thinks and behaves as they do (What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew, The Whole-Brain Child).
Strategy – Learn how to put structure in place (Smart but Scattered, Taking Charge of ADHD).
Communication – Make strategies work better with stronger conversations (How to Talk So…, Raising Human Beings).
Motivation/Support – Keep energy and perspective positive (ADHD Is Awesome, The Yes Brain).
By blending one from each type, you’ll have a balanced toolkit for both your child’s growth and your confidence as a parent.
Final Thoughts
Parenting a child with ADHD or emotional regulation challenges can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Some days will bring breakthroughs; others will simply be about staying steady and connected. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. The most powerful thing you can give your child is your steady presence and belief in their ability to grow. And in the process, you’ll grow too.