What non-pharmacological interventions are effective in managing ADHD symptoms in children?

Non-pharmacological interventions effective in managing ADHD symptoms in children include:

• ADHD-focused group parent-training programmes, which provide education on ADHD causes and impact, advice on parenting strategies, and support for managing behaviour. These are recommended as first-line treatment especially for children under 5 years and for school-age children and young people ¹,².
• Individual parent-training programmes for parents and carers when group sessions are not feasible or when family needs are complex ¹,².
• Group-based ADHD-focused support for parents/carers and/or young people, including education about ADHD and advice on parenting strategies, with liaison with schools where appropriate ¹,².
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for children and young people who have benefited from medication but still have significant impairment, focusing on social skills, problem-solving, self-control, active listening, and emotional expression ¹,².
• Environmental modifications and behavioural management strategies, including structured routines and clear, consistent rules, to reduce impairment before considering medication ¹,².
• Encouragement of a healthy lifestyle including balanced diet and regular exercise, although elimination diets or supplements are not routinely recommended ¹,².

These interventions aim to improve functional impairment across social, educational, and family domains and are recommended to be delivered by healthcare professionals with expertise in ADHD management ¹,².