Recognising ADHD in children
ADHD affects around 5% of school-aged children. It often becomes noticeable when a child starts school and the demands on attention, sitting still and following instructions increase. Signs vary widely, and girls in particular are often missed because their symptoms tend to be less disruptive.
- Easily distracted, daydreaming, "not listening"
- Forgetting instructions and losing belongings
- Difficulty starting and finishing homework
- Fidgeting, leaving their seat, constant movement
- Talking excessively, interrupting, blurting out answers
- Acting without thinking, difficulty waiting their turn
- Big emotional reactions and meltdowns
- Falling behind academically despite obvious ability
How we assess
Our child assessments are led by consultant child and adolescent psychiatrists with extensive NHS CAMHS experience. The process includes:
- Parent and teacher questionnaires (Conners-4 / SNAP-IV) completed before the appointment so we understand how your child functions in different settings.
- A developmental history with parents or carers, covering pregnancy, early milestones, school history and family history.
- A clinical interview and observation with your child, adapted to their age, either in clinic or by video.
- Screening for co-occurring conditions such as autism, dyslexia, anxiety, tics and sleep problems.
Your report and next steps
You receive a detailed written report within five working days. It is written to be shared with school and includes specific recommendations for classroom support and reasonable adjustments, which can support an EHCP application if needed.
If medication is recommended, our team will guide you through titration with regular reviews, monitoring height, weight, blood pressure and pulse in line with NICE guidance. We will request shared care with your GP once your child is stable.
Support for parents
A diagnosis can bring relief and also many questions. We offer parent consultations to talk through strategies at home, work with schools and, where helpful, signpost to parent training programmes.