Supporting Your Child While You Wait for an ADHD or Autism Assessment

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Supporting Your Child While You Wait for an ADHD or Autism Assessment

18 / Jun

Introduction

Waiting for an ADHD or autism assessment can be an emotional and uncertain time. You might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or simply want to help your child now. This guide offers practical tips and resources to support you and your child while you wait for a formal diagnosis.

 

  1. Understand What the Assessment Involves

Familiarise yourself with the assessment process. It often includes:

  • Questionnaires for parents and teachers.
  • Observations of your child’s behaviour.
  • Interviews or developmental history.
  • Sometimes physical checks to rule out other causes.

Understanding the process can reduce stress and help you prepare.

 

  1. Keep a Behaviour Diary

Recording behaviours helps you notice patterns and gather useful information. Include:

  • What the behaviour was.
  • What happened before (triggers).
  • What helped or made things worse.
  • Your child’s mood, sleep, food intake, and social interactions.

This can be helpful for professionals and for you to understand your child better.

 

  1. Focus on What Works – Not the Label

You don’t need to wait for a diagnosis to try strategies that support your child. For example:

  • Use visual schedules or timers.
  • Break tasks into small, manageable steps.
  • Offer choices to increase cooperation.
  • Reduce overwhelming environments.

If something helps your child thrive, it’s valid — diagnosis or not.

 

  1. Use Positive and Predictable Routines

Children with neurodevelopmental differences often thrive on routine. Try to:

  • Keep daily routines consistent.
  • Give advance notice before transitions (e.g., “In 5 minutes, it’s bath time”).
  • Use visual supports or checklists if helpful.

This helps reduce anxiety and improve cooperation.

 

  1. Support Emotional Regulation

Your child may struggle with expressing or managing emotions. To help:

  • Stay calm during meltdowns.
  • Label and validate their feelings: “I see you’re frustrated.”
  • Practice calming strategies together (deep breathing, drawing, movement breaks).
  • Model emotional regulation in your own behaviour.

 

  1. Prioritise Connection Over Correction

Strong relationships make a big difference. Prioritise:

  • Quality one-to-one time, even if just 10 minutes a day.
  • Playing at your child’s level.
  • Noticing and praising specific positive behaviours: “I liked how you shared your toy.”

 

  1. Advocate at School

You don’t need a diagnosis to ask for support at school. Consider:

  • Meeting with the SENCo or class teacher.
  • Asking for reasonable adjustments (e.g., seating near the front, movement breaks).
  • Sharing what works well at home.

If needed, ask the school to begin a support plan or make a referral.

 

  1. Look After Yourself Too

Parenting can be hard — parenting while waiting for answers can be even harder. Make time for:

  • Support groups (online or local).
  • Talking to someone you trust.
  • Taking small breaks when possible.
  • Practising compassion towards yourself.

You can’t pour from an empty cup.

 

  1. Know When and Where to Get Extra Help

If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, safety, or your own wellbeing, don’t wait:

  • Contact your GP.
  • Reach out to your local mental health services.
  • Speak to your child’s school about urgent concerns.

Early support can make a big difference.

 

  1. Useful Resources

 

Final Words

While waiting can feel powerless, there is a lot you can do to support your child now. Your understanding, advocacy, and love are powerful tools.

You’re not alone — and support is out there.