TPP 522: A Whole Child Approach to ADHD with Phil Boucher, M.D.

Today I’m talking with Dr. Phil Boucher, a board-certified pediatrician who’s particularly interested in helping families understand and support kids with ADHD and help parents better understand their child, trust their instincts, and make informed decisions about what their family needs. This is a unique conversation for the show because, for the first time, we’re looking at the whole journey through the lens of a pediatrician, especially in those early years when parents may be wondering what they’re seeing, whether to pursue an evaluation, and where to begin. Phil walks us through how he approaches ADHD in his practice, from evaluation and diagnosis to sleep, nutrition, screens, school supports, emotional regulation, anxiety, and medication, and offers a thoughtful, comprehensive look at supporting the whole child and family. ​ About Phil Boucher, MD Phil Boucher, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician, a dad of six, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics who helps parents make sense of pediatric education and development.  After years of answering thousands of parent questions in clinic (and at home), he realized what parents really need isn't more advice—it's honest perspective and practical reassurance from someone who gets it. He writes, speaks, and creates resources that help parents trust their instincts, understand their child, and take care of themselves along the way. Things you'll learn from this episode  How ADHD can look different across childhood, with hyperactivity often appearing earlier and inattentive traits becoming clearer over time Why family history and parents’ own childhood experiences can provide important clues when exploring ADHD How emotional regulation and executive functioning are central parts of ADHD, beyond inattention and hyperactivity Why a comprehensive ADHD evaluation should consider sleep, nutrition, school experiences, family history, and other factors How practical supports like movement, protein, and visual checklists can make everyday routines more manageable When medication may be helpful and why it’s best viewed as a tool for building skills rather than controlling behavior Resources mentioned Dr. Phil Boucher’s website Dr. Phil Boucher’s Substack Dear parents Phil on Instagram Cindy Goldrich on Helping Kids with ADHD Thrive—Without Losing Yourself (Tilt Parenting podcast) Kim & Penn Holderness Talk About How ADHD is Awesome in Love and in Life (Tilt Parenting podcast) Ned Hallowell on How Parents Can Best Support Their Children with ADHD (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Sharon Saline on What Our ADHD Child Wishes We Knew (Tilt Parenting podcast)  Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to https://heypolo.com/tilt or use code TILT and get 70% off your first year! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices