Worried About Your Child and ADHD?

gc1685
May 15
5 min read

A Parent's Guide to Understanding, Support & Next Steps

As a parent, it can be incredibly difficult to watch your child struggle — especially when you’re not quite sure why. Maybe they have trouble paying attention, act without thinking, or seem constantly restless. Perhaps teachers have raised concerns about focus, impulsivity, or emotional regulation. Or maybe it’s just a gut feeling — something doesn’t feel quite right.

If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Thousands of parents across the UK quietly ask themselves the same question every day:

"Could my child have ADHD?"

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what ADHD really is, the signs to look out for, how to approach diagnosis, and — most importantly — how to support your child with confidence and compassion.

What is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to regulate attention, behaviour, and emotions. It’s not about intelligence or parenting style — ADHD is a brain-based difference in how children process information and respond to the world around them.

ADHD usually presents in one of three ways:

Predominantly Inattentive Type Children may appear forgetful, disorganised, or seem as though they’re not listening, even when spoken to directly.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type Children may be very active, impulsive, talk excessively, and struggle to wait their turn or sit still.
Combined Type A mix of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms — this is the most common presentation.

It’s important to remember: ADHD is not a behaviour problem. It’s a self-regulation challenge — and with the right support, children with ADHD can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Signs of ADHD in Children

While all children can be energetic, distracted, or impulsive at times, ADHD involves a consistent pattern of these behaviours over time, and across different settings (home, school, social environments).

Some common signs include:

Inattention

Easily distracted or daydreams frequently
Struggles to follow through on tasks or instructions
Forgets or loses things (e.g. homework, school items)
Avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort
Has difficulty organising tasks or activities

Hyperactivity

Fidgets, squirms, or can’t stay seated
Runs or climbs in situations where it’s inappropriate
Talks excessively and loudly
Seems constantly "on the go" or driven by a motor

Impulsivity

Interrupts conversations or games
Blurts out answers or speaks without thinking
Struggles to wait their turn
Acts without considering consequences

Emotional Signs

Frequent mood swings or emotional outbursts
Low frustration tolerance
Struggles with self-esteem or feels misunderstood

Keep in mind, symptoms can look different in girls than in boys. Girls may be more inattentive and emotionally sensitive, and may mask their symptoms by becoming people-pleasers or perfectionists — making ADHD harder to recognise.

Why an ADHD Diagnosis Can Help

Some parents worry that pursuing a diagnosis will lead to labelling or stigma. But in reality, a clear and professional ADHD diagnosis can open doors — not close them.

A diagnosis can:

Help you understand your child’s brain and behaviour more deeply
Make sense of past struggles or conflicts
Enable your child to access the support they need in school
Connect your family with resources, tools, and communities
Give your child a sense of relief and self-acceptance

Most importantly, it can shift the narrative from “What’s wrong with my child?” to “How can we support them to thrive?”

What Causes ADHD?

ADHD has a strong genetic component — it often runs in families. It's linked to differences in brain structure and function, particularly in areas responsible for attention, self-control, and executive functioning (like planning and time management).

While parenting style doesn't cause ADHD, a supportive and structured environment can make a significant difference in helping a child with ADHD flourish.

Environmental factors, such as premature birth, low birth weight, or exposure to toxins during pregnancy, may also increase the likelihood of developing ADHD — but none are definitive causes on their own.

Getting an Assessment: What to Expect

If you’re concerned about your child’s behaviour, there are two main routes to consider:

1. NHS Pathway

Speak to your child’s GP or school SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
If appropriate, they will refer you to a local CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) team
Waiting lists can be long — in some areas, 12 months or more

2. Private Assessment

If you’re seeking clarity and support sooner, Private assessments can offer a fast, compassionate, and evidence-based ADHD assessment pathway:

Parent & teacher input: They can gather information from all the key people in your child’s life
Clinical interview: A remote appointment with a trained assessor who specialises in ADHD
NICE-guideline-compliant assessment: Using validated tools like the DIVA or SNAP-IV
Comprehensive diagnostic report: With clear outcomes, strengths, and support strategies
Follow-up support session: To discuss the report, treatment options, and next steps

Private assessments are designed to be family-friendly, transparent, and trauma-informed.

What If It’s Not ADHD?

Not every child with focus or behaviour challenges has ADHD. Our assessment process helps rule out other possibilities such as:

Anxiety
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Sensory Processing Difficulties
Learning differences like Dyslexia or Dyscalculia
Emotional regulation difficulties due to trauma or stress

That’s why a thorough assessment is key — it’s not just about identifying what’s “wrong,” but about building a full picture of your child’s needs.

Supporting Your Child at Home

Whether you’re waiting for an assessment or navigating life post-diagnosis, there’s a lot you can do to create a positive environment at home:

Create structure and routines — predictability helps reduce anxiety and impulsive behaviour
Use visual aids — like charts, timers, or colour-coded calendars
Break tasks into smaller steps — with praise and encouragement along the way
Practice calm communication — give clear, short instructions and avoid overloading with too much information
Focus on emotional connection — praise effort, nurture strengths, and listen without judgment

And remember — looking after your own mental health is vital too. ADHD parenting can be exhausting at times. Support groups, coaching, or even just talking to other parents can help you feel more equipped and less alone.

Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone

If you’re reading this because you’re worried about your child, know this: your concern is valid, your love is powerful, and support is out there.

Every child with ADHD has a unique brain — full of creativity, energy, empathy, and potential. With the right diagnosis, environment, and encouragement, they can do incredible things.

At NeuroAssess, we’re here to help you and your child make sense of the challenges and embrace the strengths. Whether you’re just starting to ask questions or ready to take action, we’re with you every step of the way.