During discussions about ADHD and IQ, two common myths often enter the conversation: (1) Kids with ADHD are smarter or more creative than kids without ADHD, but they simply don’t apply themselves, or (2) the opposite view, that kids with ADHD aren’t as smart as kids without ADHD. In reality, there is no direct connection between ADHD and intelligence. Just as there is a full range of intelligence among kids without ADHD, there is a full range of intelligence among kids with ADHD – some are highly intelligent, most are of “average” intelligence, and some fall into the below-average range of intelligence. While ADHD does not have a significant impact on intelligence, it does make it harder for a child to learn in a traditional classroom environment, and it interferes with his or her ability to effectively demonstrate his or her knowledge on assignments and tests. Since kids are often described as being smart or not smart based on the grades that they receive, having ADHD-related academic challenges can lead to the perception a child is less intelligent or less motivated than his or her classmates.
Parents and teachers have the opportunity to reflect on a child’s abilities and consider which of the 9 intelligences represent areas of strength. Providing opportunities for a child to develop these strengths through extracurricular activities will build self-confidence, and help buffer against the feelings of self-doubt that come with having ADHD. With a Multiple Intelligences framework, parents and teachers can start to change the dialog around what it means to “be smart,” and empower kids with ADHD to see their true potential - well beyond the grades that they receive at school.