Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens 233: Encore: Embracing ADHD with Penn and Kim Holderness
Aug 19, 2025
Penn and Kim Holderness, co-authors of 'ADHD is Awesome' and creators of The Holderness Family, share their journey of embracing ADHD with humor and heart. They discuss the emotional complexities of living with ADHD and provide relatable anecdotes while advocating for understanding and compassion in family life. The couple emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, reframing ADHD as a unique strength, and the need for tailored approaches to support creativity and emotional regulation in children. Their insights empower families to celebrate neurodiversity.
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Diagnosis Triggered By A Humiliating Moment
- Penn describes getting diagnosed in college after an embarrassing moment with a fly swatter at a funeral led him to seek help.
- A computer test at the doctor confirmed a "scorching case" of ADD and explained lifelong struggles.
Talk About Evaluation With Strengths First
- Approach a child about evaluation with warmth, strengths, and curiosity rather than frustration.
- Explain ADHD as a brain difference that can reveal strengths and point toward helpful supports.
Reframe ADHD As Abundant Attention
- Penn reframes ADHD as an abundance of attention that includes creativity and spontaneous focus.
- Self-awareness lets people harness strengths and reduce shame by understanding how their brain works.
