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Is It Time to Get Your Child Assessed for ADHD?
If you’re wondering whether your child should be assessed for ADHD, it often means you’ve already noticed something that feels “different.” It could be difficulties in attention, constant movement, impulsive actions, or challenges in connecting socially or emotionally. While it may seem like typical childhood behavior, consistent patterns across settings and over time may indicate ADHD.
An assessment isn’t about labeling — it’s about understanding your child and giving them the support they need.
What Are the Common Signs of ADHD in Children?
ADHD looks different in every child, but here are some common behaviors to watch for:
- Difficulty sitting still or staying focused
- Talking excessively or interrupting others
- Acting impulsively or without thinking
- Frequently losing items or forgetting tasks
- Struggling with organization or routines
Importantly, these behaviors should be consistent across environments — both at home and in school — and not only triggered by specific events.
Is Forgetfulness a Sign of ADHD?
Yes. ADHD often involves challenges with working memory — the brain’s “Post-it note.” Children with ADHD may:
- Forget multi-step instructions
- Lose personal items regularly (e.g., lunch boxes, jumpers)
- Seem careless, though it’s really about how their brain processes information
You can support your child by using visual reminders, offering one instruction at a time, and keeping routines consistent.
Is ADHD Caused by Bad Parenting?
Absolutely not. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition with strong genetic links. Parenting doesn’t cause ADHD, but parenting a child with ADHD can be more challenging. Standard strategies may not always work.
The focus should be on learning ADHD-specific strategies that work with — not against — your child’s brain.
What’s It Really Like to Raise a Child With ADHD?
It can be both joyful and exhausting. Children with ADHD are often creative, energetic, and funny — but also impulsive and emotionally intense.
You may find:
- Difficulty with routines
- Power struggles or tantrums
- Sleep disruptions
- A need for constant redirection
Understanding their needs and adjusting your expectations is key — alongside prioritizing your own wellbeing as a parent.
Supporting a Partner With ADHD in Parenting
When your partner has ADHD, household responsibilities and routines may require a more team-based approach.
Tips to support each other include:
- Open communication
- Shared calendars or visual reminders
- Defining parenting roles based on strengths
- Understanding how ADHD impacts each partner
Being aligned as a team helps provide consistent support to your child.
Is ADHD Hereditary?
Yes — ADHD often runs in families. Many parents recognize ADHD traits in themselves only after their child’s assessment. This intergenerational insight can help the entire family better understand themselves.
How ADHD Can Look Different at Home vs. School
At home, you may see emotional outbursts, defiance, or bedtime battles. At school, it may show up as:
- Fidgeting or disruptive behavior
- Zoning out or daydreaming
- Academic struggles
- Masking (holding it together at school, then releasing emotions at home)
Tracking behaviors across settings helps create a full picture of your child’s experience.
What Should You Do If You Suspect ADHD?
- Start With Observations: Track behaviors, their frequency, and impact.
- Speak to Teachers or a GP: They can share insights and guide you to next steps.
- Request an ADHD Assessment: Either through NHS or a reputable private clinic.
- Choose Experienced Professionals: Look for specialists with verified reviews and expertise in ADHD.
A proper ADHD assessment includes input from family, teachers, and the child — ensuring a comprehensive and supportive diagnosis.
