Are you noticing your child struggling with focus, fidgeting constantly, or having a hard time following instructions? It’s natural to wonder what’s going on. Many parents find themselves asking if these behaviours might be signs of ADHD.
So, if you’re considering ADHD tests for kids, you’re in the right place.
We’re here to help you understand the process and what to expect. Knowing what is involved can help make the experience more positive for you and your child.
Kids with ADHD often show signs related to inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity.1
It’s important to remember that some kids with ADHD are primarily inattentive, while others are more hyperactive/impulsive. However, most children show signs of both.
Getting your child tested for ADHD isn’t about labelling them. It’s to help you understand and support them better.
If your child consistently struggles with focus, impulsivity, or hyperactivity to a degree that impacts their daily life, an assessment can provide valuable answers.
An accurate diagnosis helps you identify and access the right support. Support can include educational accommodations, like extra time on tests or a quieter workspace. This can make a significant difference in their academic success.
It can also open the door to therapies that teach coping strategies, improve social skills, and boost self-esteem.
For some children, medication might be a helpful part of the plan. However, medication is not the only solution.
Ultimately, early diagnosis and intervention can help prevent the development of secondary challenges, like anxiety or low self-worth, that can arise from unmanaged ADHD.
Getting an accurate ADHD diagnosis for your child is about empowering them to reach their full potential and live a happier, more fulfilling life.
In Canada, several trained professionals can test your child for ADHD.
At Positive Kids, we have a team of experienced child therapists and professionals who are experts in diagnosing and treating ADHD.
ADHD tests for kids aren’t simple quizzes; they are not a one-and-done process.
Instead, it’s a comprehensive assessment. Professionals gather information from different sources to get the complete picture of your child’s behaviour and needs.
This helps us see if your child has ADHD or if something else might be causing the challenges.
The assessment process usually includes:
A psychoeducational assessment offered by a registered psychologist is a valuable tool for understanding a child’s learning strengths and weaknesses.
This in-depth evaluation goes beyond a basic ADHD screening. It determines if any other learning or emotional challenges should be addressed.
It looks at things like:
Talking about testing your child for ADHD, let alone receiving a diagnosis, can feel overwhelming. We understand.
But it’s the first step towards accessing support for your child and yourself.
So, how can you stay supportive and positive?
Open communication. Be open with your child, family, the school, and the professionals helping you.
Ask questions, share your concerns, and actively participate in the process.
Explain to your child that the tests will determine how they learn and think.
Be very clear that having ADHD does not mean that they are broken or that something is wrong with them. And they didn’t do anything wrong. It only means that their brain works a little differently than other kids.
(It’s crucial that you also understand this – you didn’t do anything wrong, and there’s nothing wrong with them. Getting your child tested for ADHD is doing something right.)
An ADHD test will help us find ways to help your child thrive.
We can help with this process. Our Positive Kids team offers counselling and tutoring to support children with ADHD.
We focus on building skills and confidence. Our programs use social-emotional learning to help children thrive.
After the tests, professionals will talk about the results. If your child has ADHD, they will discuss treatment options. These may include therapy, medication, or both.4
We understand that an ADHD diagnosis for your child is a big deal. But know that we’re here to help.
Our team at Positive Kids provides comprehensive assessments and support. We use a holistic, collaborative approach, working with you and your child to create a plan that meets their needs.
Our services include counselling, tutoring, and parenting classes.
We focus on your child’s strengths and help them build skills so that they will feel confident and successful.
Let’s Help Your Child Thrive!
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Disclaimer: Positive Kids is here to support your family’s journey with tools and strategies that nurture growth. The information in this blog is meant to inspire and guide; it is not a substitute for professional advice tailored to your child’s unique needs. If you have questions about what’s best for your little one, we’d love to connect. Reach out to our team today!