ADHD in Girls: Why It’s Missed and What Teachers Can Do

 When we think of ADHD, most people picture the stereotype: a restless boy bouncing off the walls, blurting out answers, unable to sit still. But here’s the problem - that picture is incomplete. And because of it, thousands of girls with ADHD are being missed, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood. 

In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, we share why ADHD often looks different in girls, how history and diagnostic tools built on boys’ behaviours still shape who gets recognised today, and why masking makes it even harder to see what’s going on. Drawing on research from the UK, US, and Sweden, he unpacks the hidden reasons why girls are diagnosed years later than boys - often only after anxiety or depression take hold. 

More importantly, you’ll learn what teachers can do right now: how to spot the red flags, support girls who may be masking, and put in place ADHD-friendly classroom strategies without waiting for a diagnosis. 

If you’ve ever taught a pupil who seems bright but scattered, sensitive yet disorganised, or “fine” at school but falling apart at home, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. 

Links: 

Download the SEND Behaviour Handbook for FREE 

Get more free resources about SEMH from Beacon School Support from this page