The two most common statements I hear from parents are, “I feel like I’m failing my child” and “this feels really lonely”.
We’ve all felt that way.
Note the "significantly below average" attachment, involvement, and parenting confidence scores in which I rated myself a few years ago for my son’s psychological evaluation.
Despite 16 years of experience working with children and families at that time, the challenges I faced with my son had taken its toll and shaken my confidence to the core.
No matter how skillful or loving you are, prolonged challenges can erode anyone’s sense of competency. Parental burnout is common, especially when raising a child with ADHD.
Here's proof that you're not a failure: you're seeking resources and strategies to help your child. This shows your love, care, and effort. You’re part of a community of parents with similar struggles.
Like your child, you're doing the best you can with the skills you have. Shifting how you perceive and respond to your child can empower you to handle even the most challenging situations with greater confidence.
My shift came when I sought community support and parent coaching. I learned to see my son for who he is—capable, kind, smart, and a work in progress--instead of a problem to be fixed.
I began to view his diagnostic labels as validation of our struggles, not his identity. A path to resources, not a box to put him in. This new perspective gave me the power of choice:
The choice to surround myself with parents who also chose empowered beliefs about their children instead of isolating.
The choice to take small, consistent actionable steps and use evidence-based strategies instead of sticking my head in the sand.
The choice to embrace compassion for myself and my son instead of beating myself up or catastrophizing his future.
This is when sustainable change and growth began in my family.
I want you to experience the same shifts ... a stronger relationship with your child, a more peaceful home, and yes, strategies to support their emotional resilience and executive function skills.
If you need support or wonder whether parent coaching is a good fit for your family, please reply to this email or reach out at https://www.carolinefitsimonescoaching.com/book-online
Warmly,
Caroline
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