ADHD is a complex concept for a child to understand. As a parent, you want the child to be prepared with a secure and self-assured attitude to pass the assessment. At We Care Support, we genuinely feel the feelings of the children and their families and support them with transparency and compassion when assessing their ADHD. Here is an expository guide on explaining ADHD assessment to a child.
Simply Explaining ADHD.
- Start with a Simple Explanation
Describe ADHD in words your child can understand: “Your brain works a little differently if you have ADHD. It can be difficult because you want to laugh, run, and play when you can’t.”
- Use Metaphors
Comparisons work well with children: you can say, for example, that it is like a remote control. “At times it feels like your brain is a TV remote and the channels change so fast, and it is hard to keep your attention on just one programme.”
Preparing for the Assessment
- State the Purpose
Children feel greater ease when they know the ‘whys’ behind an assessment. You can do this with a child: You need to know that what is happening right now is going to help you learn more about what is going on in your brain. “The doctor needs to know about how your brain works to be able to help you do your best at school and home.”
- What Will Occur
After that, the assessment steps should be outlined clearly and reassuringly:
- Getting to Meet the Doctor or Specialist: “You will meet a friendly doctor who helps kids like you.”
- Questions and Activities: “They may ask you some questions and have you do some activities, like puzzles or games.”
- They talk about feelings: “They will ask how you feel about school, friends, or things.”
- Let Them Know It Is Not a Test
Be sure your child knows that this is not a test they can pass or fail. “This isn’t like a school test. There’s no right or wrong answer. It’s just a way to see how you do things.”
During Assessment
- Stay Positive and Encouraging
The children model the parents: Stay positive and remain supportive. “You’re doing great! The doctor just wants to know more about you.”
- Be Transparent About Your Presence
It is essential to confirm with your child whether you will or will not be in the room. If you still need to, you will be sure to let them know you are close by. “I might not be in the room, but I’ll be right outside if you need me.”
After the Assessment
- Discuss the Findings
When discussing results with your child, break them out into simple language, trying to focus on the positive things. “The doctor learned a lot about how your brain works. They learned that you are a really good _______________. They also learned that you need some help with _______________, and that’s okay.”
- Elaborate the Next Move
Help your child know what comes next. “He might have some ideas about how to bring back your focus and not fidget in class. We will all help you together.”
Tips For Parents
- Patience
The assessments are excruciatingly long. Have patience with your child and with yourself. Encourage your child to ask questions and speak their feelings.
- Make Use of Resources
Products such as children’s books, videos, and even online content will do the trick. Look for something that explains ADHD using a child’s perspective.
- Ensure Supportive Environments.
Maintain open communication. Your child should realize they can communicate their feelings or whatever experience they are undergoing. “If you ever feel confused or upset, you can always talk to me.”
ADHD assessment should not be explained in a complicated or overwhelming way: through specific wording, examples, or maintaining a positive approach towards the child, the process of guiding a child into the details will ultimately become straightforward and much easier to accept.
We at We Care Support understand the struggles children and families go through when dealing with ADHD, and we will be sensitive and caring in our perception of your child’s problems. Have you noticed any changes in your child’s attention or behavior lately? Please do not be worried; at We Care Support, we have a team of experienced professionals dedicated to providing a full assessment of your child that will, in the long run, develop and offer the necessary support for their unique requirements.
Make an appointment with us today to take the first step on the road to genuine insight into your child’s strengths and weaknesses, where we can work together toward making your child an achiever. This blog has succeeded in giving practical steps for parents to have the ADHD assessment conversation with their children while encouraging professional help along the way.
