This year, as I send my kid back to school, there’s a bit more on my mind than durable book bags and leak-proof bento boxes. While I’m trying NOT to project my experiences and early conditioning onto my son, I sometimes find myself reading his success or failure through the lens of my own overachieving, hyper-sensitive, high-functioning but neurodivergent eldest daughter, middle child persona. I know I’m not the only parent in a continual state of recovery, reparenting and reassessment. Recently, I ferociously told learning support at my son’s exclusive private school that I am NOT concerned about our rising 4th grader being below grade level, and that frankly, considering we sent him to a school that does not give grades, what’s the big deal? Maybe it’s focus issues, maybe it’s micro-aggressions and the hyper visibility of difference. Maybe it’s neurodivergence, maybe it’s a refusal to submit to where techno-capitalist urgency meets my inner holistic baddy.
Some days I’m diplomatically open to working within the system – using their language, categorization and solutions to get our family’s needs met. On others, I honestly feel like everyone is skimming the surface, busily filing reports to fill quotas and obtain funding without ever getting to the root of the issue. Sometimes, amidst the new maze of doctors and specialists, I wonder what it would be like to raise a feral, hyperactive brood in the jungle. Straight teeth and straight A report cards or exiting the matrix forever? Is my son’s brain three years delayed or is the culture parentifying our young ones with brain rot and singular standards of achievement? To ADHD or not to ADHD? As if I could even find two specialists who agree on a diagnosis. Before we get into my back-to-school basics round-up for urban parents, featuring nothing less than the latest child and family-friendly wellness supplements, threads, educational toys, and more, read on for a few more of my personal insights from a Mom raising a thriving, tantrum-free young ninja potentially on the ADHD spectrum.
Some days it feels simple and easy to rely on the expertise of doctors, teachers and clinicians. On other days, I can’t help but become a menace to the system, questioning everything and everyone, wondering why we’re having all the wrong conversations and missing the point of parenting altogether…
In my son’s favorite illustrated series, DOG MAN, the main character refers to his ADHD diagnosis as a ‘superpower.’ In my online training for parents with ADHD, they use the metaphor that ADHD is “Like having a Ferrari engine with bicycle brakes.” My favorite authority on the subject, Gabor Mate, M.D., author of Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder, draws a parallel between our increasingly fragmented, surveilled and digitized fields of socialization and the rise of disorders like ADD/ADHD. According to NPR, 7.1 million kids and adolescents in the U.S. had received the diagnosis by 2022 – a million more children than in 2016. CDC data, meanwhile, confirms that the community of families dealing with ADHD numbers in the millions.
In Scattered Minds, Mate’s critical writing sheds light on some of the misconceptions cloaking the increasingly diagnosed condition. Transforming the very meaning of the term Attention Deficit Disorder, Gabor writes that one of the most damaging misconceptions parents can have about ADD children is that they are simply “looking for attention.” From discarding the illness model to calling out the DSM for prioritizing categories over emotional pain, his insights help reclaim much of the human empathy that has swirled down the attention economy’s drain pipes.
Gabor insists that contrary to popular opinion, children with ADD have had to give out more attention than they receive back, which is the very reason for their deficit. “ADD is a diagnosis not of category but of dimension,” writes Mate. Challenging the coded language of ‘attention-seeking’ in our increasingly fast-paced and digitally-mediated social milieus, Mate insists that what today’s growing leagues of sensitive, hyperactive, emotionally dysregulated children need is more positive attention from their parents. While he is not anti-medication, his work makes unconditional positive regard central to the process by which human beings reach healthy maturation.
Underneath the ADD child’s obstinacy and risky behaviors is a very anxious and insecure child who was never given the opportunity to develop healthy attachment. Not only is the child NOT a menace, attention whore or imbecile – they are above all else a mirror of the parent or caretaker’s level of anxiety, of their desperate frenzy to keep up with their adult responsibilities and the rapid-fire pace of life. In a world that keeps speeding up, Mate reminds us that the conditions of healthy maturation – including the development of secure attachment and autonomy – have never been a given.
While punishments often substitute parents’ feelings and judgments for the lessons taught by reality, the most simple and effective remedy to the rise of ADHD is simple presence and empathy, informs Mate. Rather than aiming to control their children’s behavior, parents must slow down to their level and encourage healthy growth. They must offer unconditional regard for them as humans. By helping children recognize and feel their feelings, families begin to reclaim the connectedness and compassion that has been relegated to the margins within a society that prefers compliance over cooperation, performance over presence. Only when we begin to value a child’s secure attachment and healthy autonomy over their socialization and success will we begin to see our mental health crisis resolve.
Brendan Mahan, M.Ed., M.S., ADHD and executive function expert and developer of the Wall of Awful™ model, echoes many of Mate’s findings in his belief that rarely are productivity challenges rooted in laziness or lack of motivation, but rather, stem from much deeper emotional crevices. If you’re looking to understand the real meaning behind challenges like procrastination, avoidance, and overwhelm, check out Brendan’s ADHD Essentials Podcast.
Another one of the tools that’s been helping me is a parent-led online training cohort called FLOCK. With the tagline ‘Raising Kids with ADHD, together,’ Flock is a family mental health non-profit that connects caregivers with information, resources and supportive community throughout their parenting journey. Flock offers parent training that is evidence-based, community-oriented and affordable (it’s only $10 for those on MEDICAID). In partnership with clinical leaders, Flock’s virtual parent training puts the focus on helping parents feel supported in addressing specific parenting challenges. Helping parents build stronger, more positive connections with their children, FLOCK offers simple tools that actually work. If you’re a parent raising a child diagnosed with ADHD and want less stress and shame, easier mornings, playful transitions, and blissful bedtimes, this training is for you. With space for real talk about parenting stress and partner dynamics, Flock is a team of advocates, builders, and parents united by the belief that families deserve support and access to evidence-based information.
Learn more about FLOCK HERE
Now let’s get into the goodies. Read on for my top back-to-school must-haves, from next-level nutritional gummies to swoonworthy refreshments, snake print ballet slippers, and STEM-approved d.i.y. delights! Your back-to-school babes never had it so good…
MiMi Hair Care for Kids
Maybe it’s just me, but detangling my son’s curly hair has never felt stress-free. All those mythical detangling wet brushes aside, when it comes to my kiddos’ self-care, simplicity is the goal. Once we introduced MiMi Hair Wash, bath time became increasingly tear and squeal-free for the whole family!
A safer, easier, better way to care for hair, MiMi Hair Care for Kids’ gentle all-in-one wash cleanses, nourishes and detangles in one step. Suitable for all hair types and free of moisture-stripping detergents, the plant-based, low-foam formula uses natural fatty acids to gently lift away dirt and buildup, helping hair stay soft, smooth and easy to detangle. Rich in natural fatty acids that help nourish hair and support softness, the wash is infused with organic watermelon seed oil, blueberry and coconut extracts. Supporting healthy-looking hair from the very first wash, the absence of harsh chemicals means it won’t sting little eyes. For caregivers looking to hydrate, smooth, and protect their babies’ delicate little locks the easy, natural way, look no further than MiMi Hair Care for Kids.
Find it HERE
Slithering Slippers
For those of you rewilding your daughters, encouraging them to follow their instincts, flow with their heart, and tap their toes to the beat of life, check out this pair of Lavender Snake ballet slippers made from exquisite Italian leather. Masterfully painted by hand, no two pairs of Tieks are exactly alike. With a unique combo of lavender, black, gold, and pewter, the exotic Snake Collection is just one face of the premier ballet flat brand known for its non-skid rubber soles, comfortable cushioned instep, 100% soft, full-grain leather available in a veritable rainbow of hues.
Meticulously crafted to mimic snake scales, each pair is hand-painted by skilled artisans in Tuscany, embossed with the cut scales of snake print and tumbled for peak softness before a shiny finish is applied. For the daughters of the world serving bold and beautiful, Tieks make back-to-school (or off to college!) that much more drip (Gen Z slang for high-end stylish).
Find it HERE
Ube Treasure Donuts Activity Kit
I don’t know if you missed the Ube Festival, but eating purple yam has quickly become all the rage. Not only is the nutrient-dense root veggie high in antioxidants, but studies also show that eating ube supports gut and heart health, stabilizes blood sugar, and aids digestion. Not only that, with the Ube Treasure Donuts BaKIT Box, you’ll bring the flavors of the Philippines to your kitchen through integrated STEM and cultural activities. Whether or not you’re an ube aficionado like me, these fluffy, sugar-coated donuts with sweet purple yam halaya filling incite an underwater adventure in a box!
While kids bake, they also learn about the Philippines and its vibrant coral reefs and glowing bioluminescent bays. A baking immersion fusing ocean science with cultural discovery, creativity with practical know-how – inside you’ll find pre-measured, shelf-stable dry ingredients to bake 8–10 donuts. Printed recipe cards feature step-by-step instructions, plus an activity booklet filled with ocean science experiments, cultural insights and creative activities involving plankton-inspired glowing ocean art and crystal coral. An ideal hands-on learning activity, weaving education into every step, BaKIT Box is designed for ages 5–13.
Find it HERE
LEGO® Stationery 10-Pack Gel Pens
Maybe it’s nostalgia, maybe it’s the ultimate in homework help? Either way, if smooth gel ink and customizable LEGO® plates aren’t incentive enough, I’m not sure what is. With LEGO® Stationery 10-Pack Gel Pens, kids can add a personal touch to every pen. An array of vibrant colors makes them ideal for creative classrooms, homework time and LEGO fans of all ages. A comfortable, ergonomic grip helps even the most screen-savvy of tykes settle into extended writing sessions. Add to that built-in LEGO customization and color-matched gel ink that blends function with creativity and fun. Ideal for kids, teens, adults, teachers and collectors— beyond back-to-school, they also make killer party favors!
Find it HERE
IN:PEACE (Herbal Stress Support)
Now that we’ve checked off homework help, STEM-approved baking and pain-free haircare, here’s another piece of advice for those of us parenting for peace… often times our kids are simply mirroring back the state of our nervous system. It’s not about ‘finding yourself’ so much as finding the calm that allows you to move from your most heart-centered and zen space. Introducing IN TOTAL WELLNESS and their expertly crafted multi-herb formulas to support emotional balance, overall vitality and a healthy stress-response. With fast-acting, Traditional Chinese Medicine-inspired effervescent powders developed by a licensed acupuncturist, age-hold herbal formulas are reimagined to meet the needs of modern life.
Unlike single-ingredient supplements, IN TOTAL WELLNESS formulas combine multiple herbs to provide complete support. Formulated with traditional adaptogens like rhodiola, schisandra and mimosa tree bark, the IN PEACE supplement is designed to help the body manage occasional stress. Natural wildberry flavor makes it a great addition to your morning smoothie – not to mention it’s plant-based, non-habit-forming and caffeine-free. A female-founded company on a mission to help folks feel their absolute best, IN TOTAL WELLNESS is your purveyor of natural, holistic supplements to enhance mood, sleep, mobility and general wellbeing. In addition to herbal stress support, the company offers IN:MOTION (Joint and Muscle Comfort) and IN:DREAM (Sleep Support). Available as a single purchase or subscribe and save.
Find it HERE
Two Takes on Gummy Vitamins
When it comes to SUPERFOOD, nothing tastes better than gummies bundled for easy daily wellness. Thanks to Jugo, we’re talking head-to-toe wellness in one Starter Gummy Bundle. With superfood gummies combining energy, focus, beauty, and digestive support into a simple daily routine, the Jugo bundle provides four core formulas, each crafted to support a different area of wellness:
- Energy + Superfoods Gummies to support daily vitality and energy
- Beauty + Superfoods Gummies to support hair, skin, and nail health
- ACV + Superfoods Gummies to support metabolism and gut balance
- Focus + Superfoods Gummies to support mental clarity and cognitive function
If you’re looking to increase your family’s immunity and digestive health, look no further than Jugo’s well-rounded, no-brainer approach to wellness. With forty gummies per jar, the starter bundle is your premium ticket to clean, plant-based daily nutrition for the whole clan.
Find it HERE
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something designed specifically for little bellies, I highly suggest the Kids Multi + Probiotic by OLLY. Not only is it packed with probiotics to support healthy digestion (mental health starts in the gut!) a blend of key nutrients like Vitamins A, C, D, E, B & Zinc makes this delicious bite-sized multi a win-win. Did we mention they come in Yum Berry Punch flavor? Perfect for aspiring superheroes and heroines, OLLY gummies not only boost immunity but also promote bone health and cellular energy production.
Find it HERE
Vitamin-Infused Toothpaste
Also on the nutritional wavelength, ever tried vitamin-infused toothpaste? Combining real actives like B12, C, magnesium and L-theanine – fluoride-free toothpaste by DAYLY turns your kiddos’ good habits into rituals. Packed with up to 12 vitamins and minerals, it’s a loving mother’s way of capitalizing on the 730 times a year our kids brush their teeth! With unique formulations designed for morning, night, and kids’…. DAYLY toothpaste works with your body’s given rhythms. RISE Bright citrus mint for mornings. UNWIND Calming lavender mint for evenings. ROCKET RISE for Little Go-Getters. DREAM DROP For Sleepy Time Smiles. Elevate your dental hygiene habits with a smart, functional toothpaste your kids will love using. No new routines or extra steps. With botanical formulas engineered to match the moment, DAYLY makes brush-time that much more sweet and intentional.
Find it HERE
Three Quarter Zip Pullover
Moving on, back-to-school just wouldn’t be the same without shopping for clothes. With the Three Quarter Zip Pullover by Rush & Buck, you can hit warmth and style with one stone. As one of the brand’s best-selling items, it’s built for layering and cozy days spent inside or out. Invoking a “young man’s approach to classic style,” this 100% high-quality cotton pullover comes complete with reflective detail and an antique brass zipper. From the brand on a mission to craft clothing that embodies modern sophistication and sustainability, Rush & Buck’s timeless approach to fashion uses only ethically sourced, eco-friendly fabrics.
Find it HERE
RapidAir ™Boy Kid Quick-Dry Pants
To complete the look, try on these quick-drying pants for size. What’s to love? Light and never heavy — RapidAir technology helps active kids stay comfortable in the most fickle of weather. A stretchy, flexible fit helps him move freely over various terrain. A comfortable waistband that sits softly without digging and a pull-on design — absolutely no buttons or zippers – helps him look fit on the fly. With active-ready construction built for real play, RapidAir ™Boy Kid Quick-Dry Pants by PatPat are pre-shrunk down to true size for long-lasting wearability.
Find it HERE
Hand Print Keepsake Basketball
For the active babes with sporty roots, this Little Touchprints keepsake captures your baby’s handprint on a display-quality basketball. Ideal for baby shower gifts and newborn presents, you don’t often see family heirlooms like this with growing sports legends in mind. The clean maple display base fits any room, shelf or nursery – making a bold statement about who your family is and what you’re passionate about. Inside the kit, you’ll find everything you need to get a clean, lasting print: a child-safe ink pad, an alcohol prep wipe, a protective sealant and a display base. With no DIY guesswork or craft store runs, in just fifteen minutes, you’ve accomplished a bonding moment and crafted a boy-friendly family heirloom. With tiny hands and lasting impressions, the Little Touchprints Hand Print Keepsake is a ball of many memories in the making. Also available as a football.
Find it HERE
Magnetic Tiles 100PCS STEM Creative Building Set for Kids
For the more artistically inclined, nothing builds creativity through screen-free play like magnetic tiles. With strong magnets for taller, more stable structures, the sky’s the limit with Swevva building sets for kids. Packed with STEM-learning and problem-solving activities, colorful project sets come with anywhere from 26-100 pieces. Turn playtime into creative learning with imaginative structures that help develop useful early skills. Encouraging curiosity and confidence, kids stay calm and engaged without overstimulation or noise. Understanding shapes, balance and spatial awareness as they build and connect, non-toxic ABS plastic with smooth rounded edges meets safety and durability standards. Inspiring creativity with every remodel, themed sets geared for boys and girls promise hours of joyful discovery.
Find it HERE
Swoon: The Beverage You Love That Loves You Back
Founded by two friends on a mission to live life to the sweetest (without the sugar), Swoon lemonade feels as good as its taste! Because a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to mean missing out on all the fun. Ever since one of the brand’s co-founders was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age, she embarked on an adventure to find delicious, zero-sugar drinks. Back then, none existed! Long story short, now we have Swoon, a 100% natural alternative to summer sipping. Now I know what some of you must be thinking… perhaps that every sugar alternative has some weird aftertaste that instantly turns kids off? For what it’s worth, Swoon passed my son’s pressure test with flying colors. If you’re looking to sip sweeter, without the sugar blues, join the Swooniverse and get ready to squeeze the juice out of life! Available in Swoonberry Lemonade, Pink Lemonade, Classic Lemonade, Gingerade Lemonade and Half & Half.
Find it HERE
Banana ooh-na-na Dairy-free Minions Ice Cream
Since my son celebrates his birthday in late August, back-to-school preparations usually involve a bit of ice cream tasting. At our parties, we serve two portions of ice cream to every one cake. That being said, we know that for many, dairy can do a number on healthy digestion. And for those that must be dairy-free, it’s frightening how few truly tasty options there are. From the company built on the simple desire to give everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions, the joy of creamy, decadent ice cream, indulge in this ultra-creamy, dairy-free Minion-themed frosty delight! From the KLIMON community of dairy-free enthusiasts to your doorstep, click below to pursue and a range of not just dairy-free ice cream but milks, creamers, and cheeses crafted with quality and taste in mind! Redefining indulgence without compromise, what started as a quest to create the most luxurious dairy-free ice cream has blossomed into so much more!
Find it HERE
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder by Gabor Mate, M.D., New York: Random House (1999)
“ADHD diagnoses are rising. 1 in 9 U.S. kids have gotten one, new study finds” by Maria Godoy, NPR, published online May 23, 2024
“Data on ADHD in Children” by The CDC, published online July 8, 2026
