Butterflies, Bees and the ADHD Brain

Why is the ADHD brain so distracted?

Specializing in providing support to parents of children with ADHD and therapy to youth with ADHD in Red Deer, Alberta, I often have parents ask why their ADHD child becomes distracted. I used to work with a child psychiatrist who gave the best analogy.

The Bee - efficient and direct

The typical brain works like a bee. It goes from the hive (point A) to the flower (point B) and back to the hive (point A). It’s doing its job. It’s efficient and direct.

The Butterfly - the scenic journey

The ADHD brain is more like a butterfly. It starts at the same point (the hive) but then flutters over here, and then over there, and then up and down, looking at all the amazing things along the way. They often eventually make it to the flower (point B) but have been on quite the adventure along the way and have seen and experienced so much more around them. Although they may not be seen as “productive” or “efficient”, these imaginative brains often notice far more and if they are permitted to enjoy the journey, can become the out of the box thinkers, the innovative and creative minds our world needs.

And as I think of butterflies and bees, far more people see the beauty in the butterfly and many are scared of bees. Food for thought.

Access a free telephone consultation in Red Deer

I hope this helps you understand and appreciate the struggles, and beauty, of the ADHD brain. If you have further questions or are looking for services for your child, teen or young adult struggling with ADHD, feel free to contact me at 403-588-4222 for a free 15 minute phone consultation or click HERE to learn more about my services.