For most parents, the daily juggle of meals, routines, emotions, and responsibilities can feel overwhelming. But when you’re a parent with ADHD, that chaos can become all-consuming. The forgotten lunchbox, the unwashed uniforms, the emotional outbursts – it’s not just disorganisation, it’s a neurodevelopmental condition that often goes unseen in adults. And when you add in gendered expectations about what mothers and fathers should be doing, the struggle can feel isolating and invisible.

This article explores the unique and often misunderstood challenges of parenting with ADHD, how those experiences are shaped by gender, and what strategies can help you thrive, not just survive.

The Mental Load and Executive Dysfunction

Parenting requires a constant ability to plan ahead, multitask, manage time, and regulate emotions—all areas that ADHD can deeply affect. This disconnect between expectations and ability can leave neurodivergent parents feeling like they’re constantly falling short.

For mothers, this is often …