What to Expect at Your Child’s ADHD Assessment

A Parent’s Guide to Child ADHD Assessments at Autism Kent

If you’re considering a child ADHD assessment, it’s completely natural to feel unsure about what the process involves. Many parents tell us they feel anxious, overwhelmed, or worried about whether they’re doing the right thing for their child.

This guide explains what to expect from an ADHD assessment for children, how the process works, and answers some of the most common questions parents ask.

Why parents seek an ADHD assessment for their child

Parents often seek an ADHD assessment when they notice ongoing difficulties such as:

• Struggling to concentrate or stay focused
• High levels of impulsivity or hyperactivity
• Emotional regulation difficulties or frequent meltdowns
• Challenges at school, including learning or behaviour concerns
• Difficulties with friendships or social interactions

These behaviours are not caused by poor parenting and are not “bad behaviour”. A child ADHD assessment is about understanding your child’s needs and identifying the right support.

What happens before a child ADHD assessment?

Before the appointment, we gather detailed background information to help us understand your child’s development and everyday experiences. This usually includes:

• A comprehensive developmental history
• Questionnaires completed by parents or carers
• School questionnaires or reports, where appropriate

This information helps us build a full picture of your child across home and school environments.

What happens during the ADHD assessment?

The ADHD assessment is carried out by experienced clinicians who specialise in child neurodevelopment.

During the appointment, we will:

• Talk with you about your child’s development, strengths, and challenges
• Explore attention, activity levels, impulse control, and emotional regulation
• Observe your child in a relaxed, child-friendly environment
• Consider how difficulties affect home life, school, and social situations
• As your child to complete a short computer-based activity. For children, this usually feels like a simple game

We always work at your child’s pace and aim to make the experience as calm and supportive as possible.

Are there tests involved in an ADHD assessment?

There is no single test that can diagnose ADHD. A child ADHD diagnosis is based on a combination of:

• Clinical interviews
• Developmental history
• Behavioural observations
• Standardised ADHD questionnaires
• Information from more than one setting, such as home and school

This approach ensures the assessment is thorough, balanced, and evidence-based.

What if my child feels anxious or struggles to engage?

This is very common and completely expected.

Our clinicians are experienced in working with children who may feel anxious, reluctant, or highly active. We adapt our approach to suit your child and do not expect them to behave in a particular way.

Your child being themselves helps us understand them better.

Will we receive an ADHD diagnosis on the day?

In many cases, we will discuss our initial clinical impressions during or shortly after the assessment. A final diagnosis is usually confirmed once all information has been reviewed.

You will receive a detailed written report outlining:

• Whether diagnostic criteria for ADHD are met
• Your child’s strengths and areas of need
• Clear, practical recommendations for home and school

What happens after the ADHD assessment?

Regardless of the outcome, the aim of an ADHD assessment is to provide clarity and practical support.

Following the assessment, we offer:

• Clear explanations of the findings
• Practical strategies to support your child
• Guidance for school and educational settings
• Signposting to further support where appropriate

If ADHD is identified, we will discuss next steps and available options in a clear, supportive way.

Common questions about child ADHD assessments

Will an ADHD diagnosis label my child?
An assessment does not change who your child is. Many families find that understanding their child’s needs leads to better support, improved confidence, and reduced stress.

What if my child does not meet the criteria for ADHD?
This information is still valuable. The assessment helps identify what else may be contributing to your child’s difficulties and what support may help.

Do both parents need to attend the assessment?
Not necessarily. We can discuss what works best for your family.

Will an ADHD assessment help at school?
Yes. The report provides clear, professional guidance that schools can use to support your child effectively.

Final thoughts

Seeking a child ADHD assessment with Autism Kent is a positive step towards understanding your child and supporting them in the best possible way. You don’t need to have all the answers - that’s what the assessment is for.

Website: www.autismkent.co.uk
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: 01227 656953