The goal of ADHD treatments for 5 year olds is not to “fix” your child, but to help them thrive by providing strategies and creating environments in ways that are age-appropriate, compassionate, and effective. When your child is just five years old, the idea of “treatment” for ADHD can feel overwhelming. Parents often wonder — is it too early? Should we wait and see? Or should we act now? The truth is, every child is different, and ADHD at this age may show up differently than it does in older children.
What ADHD Looks Like at Age Five
At this stage, signs of ADHD often include:
- Difficulty sitting still during group activities
- Trouble following instructions, even when they want to
- Emotional outbursts that seem bigger than the situation
- Forgetting routines (shoes, lunch, school bag)
- High levels of energy that make structured activities harder
It’s important to remember that some of these behaviours can also be typical of young children. That’s why professional assessment and guidance are so important before making decisions about treatment.
Treatment Options for Young Children
1. Behavioural Therapy
Behaviour therapy is usually the first recommended approach for young children. It focuses on helping parents and teachers create supportive environments through:
- Positive reinforcement (praising desired behaviours)
- Clear, consistent rules and routines
- Logical consequences that help children learn from mistakes
- Reward systems tailored to small goals
2. Parent Training Programs
Many parents benefit from structured training programs that provide strategies for managing ADHD-related behaviours at home. These programs can:
- Reduce stress for parents
- Increase consistency across caregivers
- Give families confidence in their parenting approaches
3. Classroom Supports
Teachers play a huge role in treatment for 5 year olds. Helpful classroom strategies include:
- Breaking tasks into short steps
- Providing movement breaks
- Using visuals, songs, or routines to support memory
- Offering calm, structured spaces for regrouping
4. Occupational Therapy
Some children benefit from occupational therapy to address sensory needs or fine motor skills. This can support better self-regulation and classroom participation.
5. Medication
Medication is not usually the first step for 5 year olds. In some situations, however, a doctor may recommend it if a child’s traits are making it especially hard for them to participate in daily routines, learning or play. [but in some cases, doctors may recommend it if symptoms are very severe and interfering with daily life.] Any decision about medication should be made thoughtfully in partnership with a qualified pediatrician or child psychiatrist.
Why Early Support Matters
The early years are often described as the “golden window” for intervention. Helping children build routines, coping strategies, and confidence at this age lays the groundwork for future success. Early treatment can:
- Improve relationships with peers and teachers
- Reduce frustration at home and school
- Prevent negative cycles of behaviour and punishment
- Build resilience and independence
How Dalza Helps Parents of Young Children
One of the hardest parts of early intervention is staying organized and communicating with everyone involved. Dalza makes this easier by:
- Storing assessments, notes, and observations in one place
- Tracking behaviour patterns over time
- Sharing updates with teachers, therapists, and doctors
- Keeping both parents aligned with real-time feedback
It’s a way to reduce stress and make sure your child’s team is working together, not in silos.
Final Thoughts on ADHD Treatments for 5 Year Olds
ADHD treatments for 5 year olds should always be gentle, child-centered, and adaptable. No single approach works for every child — and that’s okay. The goal is to help your child feel understood, supported, and capable of thriving in their own way.
At Dalza, we believe early support is one of the most powerful gifts you can give your child. And we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical or therapeutic advice. Please consult qualified professionals for individualized recommendations.
By the Dalza Team