🧠An Introduction to ADHD For Parents & Carers - ADHD Awareness Month 🧠

Mary_Scope
Mary_Scope Posts: 2,910 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists
edited October 24 in Families and carers

Part Two - What to Do if You Suspect Your Child Has ADHD and the Diagnosis Pathway
Part Three - School Support for Children With ADHD

October is ADHD Awareness Month, so throughout the month we’ll be focusing on ADHD in children and young people on the family side of the community. We’ll be sharing practical tips, guidance and information to help families better understand and support children with ADHD.

Big bold letters that say ADHD, on top of an orange arrow that is pointing left that says awareness month in white capital letters

So what is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child's ability to regulate attention, energy and impulses. This makes it hard for them to concentrate, sit still or control their behaviour. ADHD can impact a child's school life, peer relationships and family dynamics. However, with the right diagnosis and support, children can learn to manage their symptoms, build on their strengths and manage challenges more effectively!

Children with ADHD may show challenges in one or more of these areas…

• Inattention

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Trouble organizing tasks
  • Easily distracted
  • Forgetful and struggles to follow instructions

• Hyperactivity

  • Fidgeting and restlessness
  • Always “on the go”
  • Difficulty playing quietly or sitting still

• Impulsivity

  • Interrupting or blurting out answers
  • Difficulty waiting their turn
  • Acting without thinking
  • Quick temper or emotional outbursts

Throughout the month we will look at…

If you have any questions or would like to see something specific around ADHD and children this month please let me know below 😄

Comments

  • Izzylj
    Izzylj Online Community Member Posts: 5 Listener

    Hi Mary,

    Do you know about how the ADHD assessment works? I saw the pediatrician today and she said it is done on a computer and school get a questionnaire. I had already explained to her that my Son masks at school and the behaviours are only seen at home. I'm concerned it won't get diagnosed and that they will associate it all with his autism diagnosis.

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 2,910 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    Hi @Izzylj

    I understand your concern, it's hard to get school to see certain things when a child masks or has already been diagnosed with another neurodivergent condition but their answers to the questionnaire won't be the sole decision for a decision.

    Usually the assessment for ADHD will include interviews with you and your child as well to find out more about symptoms and family life. They will usually ask you things like about your childs development and concerns you have.

    You may also have some forms to fill in too and the computer test is another way that they assess ADHD symptoms in the assessment😊

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