Episode 19: Empowering Parents: What to Do While Waiting for an ADHD Assessment For Your Child with Jo Steer

In this episode, Jo Steer joins us to discuss actionable steps parents can take while awaiting an ADHD assessment for their child. We highlight the importance of adopting a needs-based approach, focusing on each child's unique strengths and challenges. Parents can access valuable resources from organizations like the ADHD Foundation (https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/) and ADDISS (http://www.addiss.co.uk/) without needing a formal diagnosis. We cover key strategies for identifying and addressing struggles such as impulsivity, hyperactivity, and emotional regulation. Jo says that while medication can be helpful, it's always advised to combine that with behavioural intervention - making small adjustments to the child's environment that can really help. One key bit of advice is to talk to your child's teacher to get them onboard to help. We touch on how ADHD can present differently in girls, often leading to underdiagnosis due to less visible hyperactivity. Understanding the individual nature of ADHD and tailoring strategies to meet each child's specific needs is crucial during the waiting period.