If your child has both autism and ADHD, you’re far from alone. Experts at Henry Ford Health say 30%-50% of children with autism also have ADHD. Still, for many families, a dual diagnosis brings more questions than answers.
What behaviors are likely linked to ADHD? Which ones may be related to autism? What is just your child being your child? Most important of all: how can you help your child thrive?
To help break things down, we spoke with two expert clinicians from Henry Ford Health:
- Pediatrician Tisa Johnson-Hooper, M.D., F.A.A.P., Medical Director of the Generational Resilience Opportunity & Wellness (GROW) Center for Autism and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities
- Child and adolescent psychiatrist Melissa Hendriks, M.D., who works with patients and families through Henry Ford Health’s GROW Center for Autism and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities
Together, they offer something many parents are looking for: clear guidance and practical ideas that can help — starting today.
Understanding the overlap between autism and ADHD (and why it matters)
Autism and ADHD are different conditions, but in some kids and teens, they can look similar in real life. Both can affect social interactions, behavior, focus and regulation.
“A child with ADHD might miss a social cue because they’re not paying attention,” says Dr. Johnson-Hooper. “A child with autism might miss that same cue because they don’t understand it.”
Dr. Johnson-Hooper says it’s less important to figure out which diagnosis is causing a behavior, and more important to identify where your child needs support. “Once you identify the area of consequence or the issue, then you can try to work together to devise a strategy around it.”
Parent Tip: Try shifting the question from “Is this autism or ADHD?” to “What’s my child struggling with right now?” It’s a powerful way to reframe your response.
What helps younger kids
For younger kids, daily routines can feel like the ultimate challenge. Transitions, following directions or remembering multi-step tasks don’t always come easily — especially when autism and ADHD are both in the mix.
But there are ways to help. According to Dr. Johnson-Hooper, simple tools can make a big difference:
- Visual schedules (using pictures) help reinforce what’s happening next
- First/then phrasing keeps expectations short and clear. For example, at bedtime, try “First we brush our teeth, then we pick a book.”
- Breaking down tasks into one-step directions can reduce becoming overwhelmed. Instead of telling your child to get ready for school, ask them to get their backpack, then get their shoes and then get their coat.
- Timers can be motivating: “Kids love being timed,” she says.
- Movement breaks help with focus and make transitions smoother.
Dr. Hendriks adds that physical activity can have a short-term benefit. “There does seem to be some improvement in attention and focus after physical activity,” she says. “And it may have a calming effect.” Try taking a walk around the block or using a mini obstacle course to transition from dinner to homework, for example. Choose an activity that your child enjoys and is willing or eager to do.
Parent Tip: When your child gets distracted, try using a visual schedule or checklist instead of repeating instructions. These tools can help a child return to task and build independence.
What helps teens and young adults
As kids get older, the stakes get higher — and so do expectations for independence, planning and organization. Executive function becomes a key challenge area, especially in middle school and beyond.
Dr. Hendriks notes that tasks like tracking assignments, getting ready in the morning or planning ahead can become overwhelming. But your child can succeed with the right support systems and time to practice.
“Doing some work on time management can be helpful,” she says. Many kids with ADHD have a hard time estimating how long tasks will take — even something as routine as getting ready in the morning.
Here are some ideas to try:
- Use digital planners or reminder apps to build independence. Low-tech options can be as simple as a written checklist posted on the wall.
- Help your teen discover what routines work for them, like 20-minute chunks of work followed by physical activity breaks.
- Build in opportunities to self-advocate, such as requesting quiet test spaces or noise-canceling headphones.
Self-advocacy, Dr. Johnson-Hooper says, starts early. “As early as age 12, families and providers can really start shifting from working with the parent to really putting the child in the center and working in a very deliberate way to build health awareness about their own diagnosis.”
Parent Tip: Start with one area — maybe bedtime or homework — and work with your teen to create a system that supports their independence. Then step back (a little!) and let them practice.
Why your family’s culture matters
No two families are alike, and that means no single strategy will work for everyone. Dr. Johnson-Hooper encourages parents to advocate for approaches that fit their family’s culture, routines and values.
“One of the first things I encourage families to do is to learn as much as they can about each diagnosis,” she says. “Then, when you’re working with your child’s physician, therapist or teacher, always honor your family’s cultural values.”
Parent Tip: Don’t be afraid to say, “This isn’t how we do it at home.” A good provider will work with you to find solutions that respect your values.
Moving forward, one step at a time
Parenting a child with both autism and ADHD can feel like a lot — because it is a lot. But you don’t have to solve everything at once, and you don’t have to do it alone.
Build a team. Talk to your pediatrician. Ask for support from therapists, teachers or counselors. Look into culturally competent groups through national organizations like CHADD and Autism Speaks.
“When you feel connected to your community, you feel supported,” says Dr. Johnson-Hooper.
This content is sponsored by Henry Ford Health. Learn more about The GROW Center for Autism and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities and The Henry Ford Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (CADD).
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