Dr. Cassie & Associates

ADHD

What signs might I see in my child?

  • Seems to lose focus very quickly and is easily distractible
  • Flits between activities
  • Fidgets or squirms, seems to be always ‘on the go’
  • Forgetful in daily activities
  • Poor organisation, they may frequently lose things
  • May appear impatient or have trouble waiting their turn
  • Slow progress or other difficulties at school
  • Impact on family functioning and friendships 
  • Behavioural difficulties, frequent verbal or physical outbursts
  • Sleep problems, particularly in settling to sleep 
  • Tics or other involuntary movements

Should I get my child assessed?

Reasons why your child might need an assessment:

  • Behavioural problems at home and/or at school
  • Concerns about slow academic progress at school 
  • Difficulties managing social relationships
  • Showing signs of anxiety about attending school or school refusal 
  • Family functioning is being significantly impacted by behaviours at home

What does an assessment involve?

Before the assessment:

  • We will ask you and your child’s school to complete questionnaires. 
  • Review of any relevant reports from professionals that have seen your child eg speech therapist, educational psychologist etc
  • Screening phone call if needed to discuss the best assessment for your child.
  • Video call to take developmental history from you as parents in advance of the assessment if you are concerned about speaking in front of your child

During the assessment:

  • Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours face to face in my clinic room in Wallingford
    • Computer based assessment lasting 15-20 minutes
    • Cognitive assessment by a psychologist lasting approximately 1 hour 
    • Observation of your child’s behaviour and a full history taken from you about your child’s health and development 
    • Observation of your child in their school setting if this is deemed necessary 
    • Growth assessment and physical examination of your child where applicable 
  • Verbal feedback is given on the day with the results of the assessment

What happens after the assessment:

  • You will receive a comprehensive report with a detailed explanation of the results, and a list of recommendations and resources for managing ADHD that may help to support you and your child
  • Recommendations specifically targeting ADHD for your child’s school and a copy of the report (amended as necessary) made available for your child’s school, which may facilitate additional support or an application for an EHCP 
  • A clear follow up plan, with advice about medication that may be appropriate for your child
  • Regular local follow up for your child if medication is commenced, to make sure their symptoms are being well managed