# Share time your child enjoys

Published by Pawel Jozefiak. [About this project](https://adhd100.jock.pl/about/), [How we check sources](https://adhd100.jock.pl/methodology/)

- Canonical: https://adhd100.jock.pl/share-child-led-time/
- Language: en
- First published: 2026-09-29
- Evidence checked: 2026-09-29, using AI-assisted source verification
- Clinical review: Not clinically reviewed
- Number 56 of 100 in the list: https://adhd100.jock.pl/#share-child-led-time

Make time together that is for connection, with the correcting left out.

**The number:** Support positive parent and child contact ([NICE, public HSC Northern Ireland copy, 2018](https://cypsp.hscni.net/wp-content/uploads/ebpp/reports/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-diagnosis-and-management-pdf-1837699732933.pdf))

## The evidence

- How sure: Certainty of evidence: Guideline advice, not formally graded. Measured in people with ADHD.
- Evidence grade: A. Grade A: moderate or high certainty evidence in people with ADHD, or an explicit ADHD guideline recommendation.
- Basis: Explicit NICE relationship-support recommendation and NHS ADHD self-esteem guidance; no standalone trial estimate.
- Benefit: 47/100. The benefit score is an editorial prioritization for the general list, weighted by certainty. It is not a prediction of what will happen for you.

## Why it matters

NICE recommends positive contact between parents or carers and children with ADHD. NHS ADHD guidance suggests sharing a child's interests and enjoyable activities to support connection and self-esteem. The effect of a short shared activity alone has not been quantified, and it should not become another task your child must perform correctly.

## How to do it

1. Ask your child what they'd like to do with you.
2. Give them your attention for a stretch you can actually manage.
3. Notice what they enjoy and follow their lead. Don't turn it into a lesson.

## Putting it into practice

### Start now

- 1 minute: Jot down something your child loves and a curious question you could ask about it.
- 5 minutes: Ask your child to show or tell you something they enjoy, and listen without correcting.
- 15 minutes: Share a small activity your child chooses, with the focus on enjoying the time together.

### What it looks like

- Let your child explain a favourite game while you listen.
- Join in drawing, or watch a short part of a programme they want to share.

### Common mistakes

- Turning the activity into a behaviour review can crowd out connection, so discuss concerns separately.
- An ambitious outing may never happen. Pick something small and within reach.

### Trusted how-to guides

- [ADHD & Self Esteem (undated)](https://connect.humber.nhs.uk/service/childrens-adhd-intervention-team/adhd-self-esteem/), Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust

## Sources

- [ADHD: diagnosis and management, NG87, information and support](https://cypsp.hscni.net/wp-content/uploads/ebpp/reports/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-diagnosis-and-management-pdf-1837699732933.pdf), NICE, public HSC Northern Ireland copy, 2018 (Tier 1 guideline)
- [ADHD & Self Esteem (undated)](https://connect.humber.nhs.uk/service/childrens-adhd-intervention-team/adhd-self-esteem/), Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, 2026 (Tier 1 guideline)

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General information about ADHD, not a diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Tailoring changes the order of suggestions; it does not assess you. Medication decisions belong with you and a qualified clinician.

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