What is ADHD?

Support while waiting for an ADHD assessment

Awaiting an ADHD assessment can be a challenging period for families. However, there are numerous support groups and resources available to assist during this time.

Supporting your child at home

You are the expert of your child and are probably already putting in place strategies to support, sometimes without realising it. Here are some key strategies that may help children with ADHD.

Strategies for supporting a child with ADHD

Create a structured environment:

  • Establish clear routines and set consistent rules to provide a sense of order.
  • Use checklists or visual charts to help your child stay organised.

Help them manage energy levels:

  • Encourage physical activities that allow them to burn off excess energy, such as sports or outdoor play e.g. trampolining, use of a treadmill.
  • Include regular breaks during homework or tasks that require focus.

Break down tasks:

  • Divide larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
  • Use timers or apps to help your child stay on track and complete tasks within a set time frame.

Promote positive behaviour:

  • Use a reward system, such as a sticker chart, to reinforce good behaviour and effort.
  • Focus on praising achievements and progress, rather than highlighting mistakes.

Limit distractions:

  • Create a quiet workspace for homework or reading, free of unnecessary distractions such as a TV or noisy gadgets.
  • Use tools like noise-cancelling headphones or fidget items to help your child stay focused.

How parents can communicate with the school

  • Schedule a meeting: Arrange a meeting with your child’s teacher, Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), or pastoral care team to share your concerns. Bring any supporting information, such as observations from home or advice from professionals.
  • Explain your child’s needs: Provide details about your child’s strengths, challenges, triggers, and behaviours. This will help staff understand how to best support them. Detail what you have to do at home to support your child and what happens when you don’t do it for any reason.
  • Follow-up: Maintain open communication with the school through regular meetings or progress updates.

Strategies schools can implement

Schools can adopt various strategies to help children with any type of special educational need and this is not reliant on either a diagnosis or an Education, Health and Care plan (EHC plan, often referred to as an EHCP). The SEND code of practice provides statutory duties and guidance for school to follow.

Schools in Bromley have access to a SEN tool kit and support from the Inclusion Support Advisory team (ISAT) and the SEND Advisory Team (SENDAT). Below are some examples of what schools may put in place as reasonable adjustments and where a diagnosis is not needed.

Movement breaks:

  • Allow frequent short breaks to help the child release excess energy and refocus.

Seating arrangements:

  • Place the child in a low-distraction area, such as near the teacher or away from windows and doors.

Chunking tasks:

  • Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and provide clear instructions.

Positive reinforcement:

  • Use reward systems like sticker charts to motivate and reinforce good behaviour or task completion.

Fidget tools:

  • Provide sensory tools such as stress balls or fidget toys to help maintain focus.

Building a collaborative relationship

Parents and schools working together will ensure tailored support is made available to children with SEND. By regularly reviewing progress, adapting strategies, and sharing observations, both parties can create an environment where children feel safe and supported.

Finding out more about ADHD

Local support groups in Bromley:

  • Bromley Mental Health Hub: Supporting mental health of children, young people and their families.
  • Bromley Y: Support with emotional wellbeing and mental health for children, young people and their families.
  • CANDI (Creative And Neuro-Diverse Innovations): Providing opportunities for volunteering, employment, training, socialising, communication, and confidence building for the Bromley area neurodiverse community.
  • Destiny Children & Family Support Group: Provides creative social activities for children with special educational needs or disabilities, and a support group for families with children who have autism, ADHD, speech and language, social, emotional, or other special needs.
  • Rhiannons Café: Staffed by a neurodivergent team, Rhiannon’s Café is a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

Useful Services for Information and Self-Help Guides:

  • Bromley 0 to 19 Public Health Service: Provides information on ADHD, including referral processes, treatment options, and useful resources.
  • HelpGuide.org: Offers comprehensive articles on managing adult ADHD, focusing on organisation, time management, and productivity strategies.
  • Additude Magazine: Provides a complete playbook for social challenges associated with autism and ADHD, including early signs, coping strategies, and support resources.
  • Amazon: Hosts a variety of books offering comprehensive information on ADHD and autism, including self-help guides and workbooks.

Engaging with these local support groups and utilising available resources can provide valuable assistance and guidance for families during the waiting period for a diagnosis.

Remember to take time for yourself to recharge. Supporting a child with additional needs can be demanding, so ensuring your own well-being is essential.