Avoiding Turbulence vs. Embracing Your Parental Power: A Mindset Shift for Parents of ADHD Kids
If you’ve ever flown on a plane, you know turbulence can make even seasoned travelers grip the armrest. Parenting a child with ADHD? Turbulence often feels like part of the daily forecast.
The Hidden Cost of Avoiding Turbulence
In the moment, avoidance feels like relief. But over time, it:
Teaches kids that emotions are “too big” to handle
Leaves parents exhausted and burned out
Erodes authority and leadership
Avoidance doesn’t cancel storms—it just changes your route.
The Power of Staying in the Pilot’s Seat
Pilots don’t give up control when skies get rough—they steady the course. Parenting works the same way.
Authentic leadership means calm presence, clear boundaries, and guiding your child through, not around, their storms.
Parenting Education = Ongoing Flight Training
Pilots train constantly to stay sharp. Parents of ADHD kids need the same ongoing learning:
Education about ADHD and executive function
Practice with emotional regulation and communication
Support from the community or coaching
How to Embrace Your Parental Power
Expect turbulence — it’s part of the journey.
Stay steady with boundaries — the “seatbelts” of family life.
Keep learning — refresh your skills as your child grows.
Model calm — your regulation teaches theirs.
Debrief after the storm — strengthen trust and problem-solving.
Why It Matters
When you embrace your parental power, you don’t just survive turbulence—you model resilience. You show your child that storms can be navigated.
You keep your family’s “plane” not only in the air, but moving toward connection and growth.
Avoidance keeps everyone grounded. Leadership helps everyone fly.
💬 Reflection for You:
Where am I avoiding turbulence in my parenting—and what would it look like to step back into the pilot’s seat?
With care,
Coach Kate
Certified ADHD Parent Coach & Whole Person Coach
Founder, ADHDKidsCanThrive.com
🎙️ Host of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast
📘 Author of How We Roll: A Parent's Journey Raising a Child with ADHD