Parenting Perspective 

Patient and Realistic Support 

Many parents worry that learning two languages will overwhelm a child with ADHD, but research shows that bilingual children with ADHD can still thrive when they are given patient, realistic support. The key is not to overload your child with long, complicated lessons but to keep language use short, clear, and part of your everyday routines. 

Use simple words and repeat them often in real situations, for example, saying ‘Put your shoes on’ in both languages during daily tasks. You can help your child to stay focused by using visual reminders like picture cards or labelled objects around the house. Build language learning into activities that match your child’s interests and energy levels, like singing, storytelling, or acting out simple scenes. 

Be flexible; some days they might switch between languages or mix them up, and that is okay. Focus more on helping your child to feel understood and confident than on achieving perfect grammar. Talk to teachers or therapists about your family’s language goals so they can help to support your child’s unique needs in a kind, practical way. 

Spiritual Insight 

A Mercy, Not a Burden 

Islam reminds us that each child’s abilities are designed with care by Allah Almighty, who never burdens a soul beyond what it can manage. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 286: 

‘Allah (Almighty) does not place any burden on any human being except that which is within his capacity…’ 

This gentle reminder should comfort you when you worry about whether two languages are too much. With your patience and trust in Allah Almighty’s wisdom, your child can learn at their own pace. 

Make it Easy 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ guided others with kindness, patience, and understanding, always encouraging progress one step at a time. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6125, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Make things easy and do not make things difficult.’ 

Supporting a child with ADHD to manage two languages should feel the same, gentle, realistic, and encouraging. Praise every effort they make to speak or understand, even if they get distracted. Make Dua that Allah Almighty brings ease to your child’s mind and blesses your family’s languages with Barakah.