Research on Neurofeedback Training for Kids with ADHD

A study published in Scientific Reports examined the potential of neurofeedback training (NFT) to enhance executive functions in children with ADHD, which are essential skills for planning, focusing, and managing everyday tasks.

Children with ADHD usually struggle in these areas, so researchers wanted to see if NFT makes a difference. The findings showed that NFT had a positive effect on two important areas of executive function: inhibitory control (the ability to stop and think before acting) and working memory (the ability to hold and use information in the mind).

These improvements tell us that NFT can be a useful tool for helping kids with ADHD handle challenges at school, at home, and in social situations.

The study also found that the benefits of NFT were stronger when children received more training over time.

Understanding the Research

The main goal of this research was to find out if neurofeedback training (NFT) can improve executive functions in children and teens with ADHD.

To answer this question, the researchers followed strict guidelines called PRISMA, which are used to make sure reviews are thorough and reliable. They searched major databases for studies published in English between 2000 and 2024.

Only studies that included children with ADHD, used NFT as a treatment, and measured skills like working memory and inhibitory control with proper tools were included. They excluded studies that did not fit the criteria, such as those that included adults, lacked a control group, or weren’t intervention-based (like reviews or case studies).

After analyzing 17 randomized controlled trials with 939 participants aged 6 to 17 years, the researchers observed the following:

• Children who received NFT showed noticeable improvements in their ability to focus, control impulses, and hold information in mind.
• Those who completed longer NFT programs showed bigger gains in inhibitory control and working memory, while shorter programs were less effective.
• Children continued to show benefits from NFT months later, particularly in working memory, with improvements in inhibitory control also sustained for 6–12 months.
• The researchers have also noted that NFT can work well alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication. They mention that cognitive training mainly helps children improve inhibitory control, whereas NFT mainly helps working memory.

Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers

NFT may be a valuable tool, but parents and caregivers can take active steps at home to enhance their child’s executive functioning and complement any training they receive.

Establish a daily schedule

Having a daily schedule helps children with ADHD know what to expect and makes it easier for them to stay on track. In the morning, a routine can include getting dressed, eating breakfast, and packing for school.

After school, a routine for homework, snacks, and playtime can reduce stress and prevent distractions. In the evening, a consistent schedule for dinner, chores, and bedtime helps them wind down and get enough rest.

A daily schedule also teaches your child to think about how long a task will take. For example, if homework usually takes 20 minutes, they can plan when to start and finish, which improves time management and reduces frustration

Let them take short breaks to manage their mental energy

Short breaks help children with ADHD stay focused and manage their attention. When the brain gets tired, taking a pause allows it to reset, so kids can return to tasks with better focus. Breaks can also help reduce stress and frustration.

Here are some examples of short breaks:

• Stretching or moving around for a few minutes
• Listening to a favorite song or playing a quick game
• Doing a deep-breathing exercise or relaxing for a moment

We also have a handout full of ideas for kids to make their breaks fun and refreshing.

Introduce CBT

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common and effective therapy for children with ADHD. One of its main goals is to help kids see themselves in a more positive light.

Many children with ADHD struggle with negative thoughts about their abilities because their brains work differently from the neurotypical world around them.

CBT gives children tools and coping strategies to handle frustration, manage strong emotions, and work through challenges in school, at home, or with friends. Kids will also be able to notice some patterns in their behavior that may be holding them back and learn better ways to respond.

The researchers also mentioned that neurofeedback training can improve executive function in children with ADHD, although more research is needed to confirm its long-term effects.

Try our ADHD worksheets for kids and teens to strengthen attention, memory, and self-regulation at home.