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ADHD in Kids: Pediatrician Answers Parents’ Biggest Questions | Experts Answer

Understood
Understood•Apr 25, 2026

Why It Matters

Understanding the safety of medication, the role of genetics, and practical management strategies helps parents reduce stigma, make informed choices, and secure effective support for their children’s success.

Key Takeaways

  • •ADHD medications are safe and effective when properly prescribed.
  • •ADHD genetics are as strong as height; parents aren't to blame.
  • •Emotional reactivity is core ADHD symptom, causing tantrums.
  • •Effective listening requires gaining child's full attention first.
  • •Consistent routines, positive feedback improve ADHD management at home.

Summary

Developmental pediatrician Dr. Mark Bertin answers the most common questions parents have about ADHD, covering medication, diagnosis, behavior, and school support.

He emphasizes that correctly diagnosed ADHD is a medical condition but medication is optional; decades of research show drugs are safe, effective, and free of long‑term side effects when used properly. Genetics play a role comparable to height, and no parenting behavior, vaccines, or Tylenol cause ADHD. Emotional reactivity and executive‑function deficits explain tantrums, listening challenges, and social difficulties.

Bertin notes, “ADHD medications are incredibly safe and effective when used appropriately,” and adds, “All children are normal; we just need to identify supports.” He outlines practical strategies: secure a child’s full attention before requests, maintain consistent routines, set clear screen‑time rules, and consider therapy, coaching, or a 504 plan versus an IEP.

These insights empower families to make objective treatment decisions, reduce stigma, and advocate for tailored educational accommodations, ultimately improving long‑term outcomes for children with ADHD.

Original Description

Dr. Mark Bertin is a developmental pediatrician who’s seen hundreds, if not thousands, of kids with ADHD — and these are some of the questions parents ask him most. He talks through screen time, executive function struggles, tantrums versus meltdowns, ADHD medication, and school supports like IEPs and 504 plans. He also shares what an ADHD diagnosis can mean for your child’s future.
Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:17 Will my child need ADHD medication and is it safe?
01:28 What is a developmental pediatrician exactly?
02:08 Are my child’s challenges because of something I did?
02:29 Why is my child having tantrums or meltdowns?
03:10 How do I get my child to listen when I ask them to do something?
04:20 Should we get my child tested for ADHD or autism?
05:20 Is my child normal?
05:44 Is my kid just a late bloomer or is something wrong?
06:23 What is executive function?
07:16 Why doesn’t my child play with other kids?
08:01 My child just wants to be on-screen all the time. What should I do?
09:27 Does my child need an IEP or a 504 plan?
10:28 Does my child need therapy?
11:26 How do I support my child with ADHD at home?
12:24 What does an ADHD diagnosis mean for my child’s future?
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