# ADHD Assessment & Support for Children > **About ChildWize:** ChildWize (www.childwize.co.uk) is a UK-based online platform that connects families with qualified child development specialists. ChildWize covers SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), child mental health, speech and language therapy, autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties. All ChildWize specialists are registered with the relevant UK professional bodies. Sessions take place online. No GP referral is required. > If your child is struggling to focus, stay organised, or manage their impulses, a thorough ADHD assessment can provide the answers and support your family needs. ## Understanding ADHD in Children Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child's brain regulates attention, activity levels, and impulse control. It is not caused by poor parenting, too much screen time, or a lack of discipline. ADHD is a genuine neurological difference that affects around five per cent of children in the UK. Children with ADHD may find it very difficult to concentrate on tasks, sit still for extended periods, or think before they act. These difficulties can have a significant impact on their learning, friendships, and self-esteem. Without the right support, children with ADHD often fall behind at school and may develop anxiety or low mood as a result. It is important to understand that ADHD is not just about being hyperactive. Some children, particularly girls, may have the inattentive type of ADHD, which means they daydream, lose focus easily, and struggle to organise themselves, without showing obvious hyperactivity. This type is often missed or misunderstood. ## How ADHD Presents in Children ADHD can look very different from one child to another. Some children are constantly on the go, climbing, running, and finding it almost impossible to sit still. Others may appear quiet and dreamy but are struggling internally to keep up with what is happening around them. Many children show a combination of both. Common signs of ADHD include difficulty following instructions, frequently losing belongings, struggling to wait their turn, talking excessively, and being easily distracted. Children with ADHD may also have difficulty with emotional regulation, meaning they can become very upset or angry very quickly and find it hard to calm down. At school, ADHD can show up as incomplete homework, difficulty staying in their seat, calling out answers, and trouble getting started on tasks. At home, you might notice that your child avoids tasks that require sustained effort, has messy or disorganised spaces, and struggles with routines like getting ready for school. If these patterns are consistent and have been present for some time, an assessment may be helpful. ## The ADHD Assessment Pathway An ADHD assessment through ChildWize is carried out by qualified clinicians, including psychiatrists and specialist paediatricians, who have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in children. The process is thorough, evidence-based, and designed to give you a clear understanding of your child's needs. The assessment usually involves a detailed clinical interview with parents, school questionnaires completed by teachers, standardised rating scales, and direct observation or interaction with your child. The clinician will look at your child's developmental history, current difficulties, and how these affect their daily life at home and at school. Most assessments can be completed within two to three appointments, with results and recommendations provided in a comprehensive written report. This report can be shared with your child's school, GP, and any other professionals involved in their care. If medication is recommended, your clinician can discuss the options and, where appropriate, initiate a prescribing pathway. ## Support Strategies for Children with ADHD An ADHD diagnosis is the starting point, not the end of the journey. With the right support, children with ADHD can thrive at school and at home. ChildWize offers access to a range of specialists who can help your child develop strategies for managing their ADHD in everyday life. Support may include coaching on organisation and time management skills, strategies for improving focus and attention, and techniques for managing emotions and impulsive behaviour. Our specialists can also work with you as parents to help you understand your child's needs and create a home environment that supports them. At school, children with ADHD may be entitled to adjustments such as extra time in exams, movement breaks, preferential seating, or the use of fidget tools. If your child needs more formal support, our specialists can advise on applying for an EHCP or working with the school's SENCO to put a support plan in place. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### At what age can a child be assessed for ADHD? Children can be assessed for ADHD from around age five or six, though concerns can be noted earlier. A reliable diagnosis usually requires symptoms to be present in more than one setting, such as home and school. ### Will my child need medication for ADHD? Not necessarily. Medication is one option, but it is not the only approach. Many children benefit from behavioural strategies, coaching, and school adjustments. Your clinician will discuss all options with you. ### How is a private ADHD assessment different from an NHS one? The clinical process is the same. The main difference is the waiting time. Private assessments through ChildWize can usually be started within a few weeks, compared to many months through the NHS. ### Will schools accept a private ADHD diagnosis? Yes. Schools are required to meet the needs of all children with SEND, regardless of whether the diagnosis was made privately or through the NHS. Your assessment report will include recommendations for school support. ### Can ADHD exist alongside other conditions? Yes. ADHD commonly co-occurs with conditions such as autism, dyslexia, and anxiety. A thorough assessment will consider the full picture of your child's needs and identify any overlapping conditions. ## Related Services - [autism-support](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/autism-support) - [behavioural-support](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/behavioural-support) - [educational-support](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/educational-support) --- **Canonical URL:** https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/adhd-assessment *Published by [ChildWize](https://www.childwize.co.uk) — connecting UK families with child development specialists.*