Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. It is normal for small children to find it difficult to pay attention, listen and follow directions, sit still or wait their turn. For children with ADHD these struggles are harder and persist beyond their younger years.
A person with ADHD has differences in brain development and brain activity that affect attention, the ability to sit still and self-control. It is present from early childhood and often persists into adulthood.
NHS - An overview of ADHD, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment
Children and young people with ADHD can struggle at home and at school. Their difficulties can make life challenging for themselves and their caregivers and they often find themselves in trouble for behaviour they are not able to control. It helps a child with ADHD to learn as much as possible about their condition so that they can be better understood and supported.
If you think that your child may have ADHD, speak to your GP who may refer for specialist assessment. If your child is at nursery or school, you can also discuss your concerns with them.
Assessment referral routes are the same as autism assessment referrals, as explained on page 2.
More information on how schools can support children and young people’s learning needs can be found in SEND Inclusion Guidance.
ADHD Foundation
The ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity is an integrated health and education service offering a strength-based service to people who live with ADHD. Resources are available under the heading ‘ADHD and Me’ for children, teens and adults. There is also a separate bank of resources available for parents and carers and for professionals.
ADHD Solutions
An organisation based in Leicestershire providing help, support, family coaching and resources for children, young people and adults affected by ADHD and their families.
Family and parenting support
In Warwickshire, parents and carers have access to a variety of parenting resources and advice. Information, advice and support is available online, through telephone or face-to-face contact. This help is available to all families, including those with additional needs, to help them deal with issues as early as possible. It is a spectrum of support that ranges from information, advice and support that families can access themselves through to more individualised or targeted support.
- Parenting support
- Support for parent/carers
- Information for young people
- Rise early support for parents and carers
- Rise recommended resources
Other useful links are listed on the right hand side of this page (at the bottom if viewing on a mobile phone).