My Journey as an ADHD Mom: Tips for Managing Day-To-Day Life
By Autism Mom · · 4 min read
I was diagnosed with ADHD in my early 30s—after River's diagnosis. Here's what actually helps me manage motherhood with a brain that loves chaos.
Finding Out I Have ADHD Changed Everything
Let's be honest—being a mom is tough. But when you add ADHD into the mix? It's a whole different level of challenge.
I was diagnosed with ADHD in my early 30s, shortly after River's autism diagnosis. Suddenly so many things made sense. Why I struggled with "simple" things other moms seemed to do effortlessly. Why my brain felt like 47 browser tabs open at once.
Here's what actually helps me function.
How ADHD Changed My Approach to Motherhood
The usual mom advice never worked for me. "Just make a schedule!" "Stay organized!" "Wake up before the kids!"
My ADHD brain laughed at all of it.
I had to get creative. I had to find my own systems. And I want to share what finally worked.
1. Routines Are My Best Friend (But Flexible Ones)
I know—routines sound boring. But for ADHD brains, a little structure is actually freeing. The trick is flexibility.
I set up loose daily anchors:
- School lunches prepped the night before (non-negotiable)
- Dinner planned for the week (but I can swap days)
- Bedtime routine same every night
My Tip: I use a magnetic fridge calendar for everything. The second I book an appointment or think of something, I write it down before my brain moves on.
2. Break Everything Down
Big tasks feel like mountains. So I don't do big tasks—I do micro-tasks.
Instead of "clean the house," I do:
- Put away 5 things
- Wipe down one counter
- Start one load of laundry
My Tip: I use this same strategy with River and my daughter. Small chunks, frequent breaks. Works for all of us.
3. Self-Care Isn't Optional
As moms, we put everyone else first. But if I'm running on empty, everyone suffers.
My non-negotiables:
- Morning coffee ALONE for 10 minutes
- Stepping outside at least once a day
- Saying "no" to things that drain me
4. Visual Reminders Everywhere
If I don't see it, it doesn't exist. So I make everything visible:
- Hooks by the door for keys and bags
- Whiteboard in the kitchen with the day's must-dos
- Medication and vitamins right next to my coffee maker
- A 👉 First/Then Daily Routine Board for the kids (and honestly, for me too!)
Out of sight = out of mind. I design around that reality.
5. Find Your "Body Double"
ADHD brains often work better with someone else present. Even if they're just sitting there.
I call my sister while I fold laundry. I schedule cleaning sessions when my husband is home. I work better with company—even virtual company.
Give Yourself Grace
Some days I crush it. Some days I forget to feed myself until 3pm. Both are valid.
ADHD isn't a character flaw. It's how my brain is wired. And once I stopped fighting it and started working with it, everything got easier.
Any fellow ADHD parents here? What's your best survival tip? 💛