Does My Child Have Autism or ADHD? A Step-by-Step Guide for our MMPP Families

"Am I overreacting?"
"Where do I even start?"

Many of our MM parents describe having a sense that something may be different about their child's development or behaviour long before they seek an assessment. They often notice that their child struggles with some aspects of socialising, finds transitions or change difficult, appears distractable and inattentive, has intense emotional reactions, or that they receive regular contact from the school about their behaviour or learning.

If you suspect your child may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), taking a structured approach can help you access the right support and information early on.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. Autism presents differently in every child and may include differences in social communication, sensory processing, routines, and interests.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, activity levels, and emotional regulation. Children with ADHD may experience difficulties with focus, organisation, following instructions, and managing their behaviour across different settings.

 

Parents Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Document Your Concerns

Before starting the formal process, it can be helpful to keep notes about what you are noticing, ideally personalised examples of specific behaviours.

  • Social communication difficulties

  • Attention and concentration challenges

  • Hyperactivity or impulsivity

  • Emotional regulation difficulties

  • Sensory sensitivities

  • Learning concerns

  • Behavioural challenges

  • Sleep difficulties

  • Situations where concerns appear more or less noticeable

 

Step 2: Liaise With Your Child's Educators

Teachers, preschool educators and childcare staff can offer important insights into how your child functions in different environments.

Questions to ask them may include:

  • How does my child compare with peers of a similar age?

  • Are there concerns regarding attention, learning or behaviour?

  • How does my child manage difficult social interactions?

  • Have any learning support strategies been recommended?

Because ASD and ADHD impact multiple areas of functioning, observations across different settings are an important part of assessment.

 

Step 3: Consult Your GP

For most of our MM families, the recommended next step is booking an appointment with your General Practitioner to:

  • Discuss developmental concerns

  • Rule out medical factors that may contribute to symptoms

  • Provide referrals for assessments

  • Develop a Mental Health Treatment Plan if appropriate

  • Refer to paediatricians, psychiatrists or psychologists

It can be helpful to bring your observations, school reports and teacher feedback to this appointment.

 

Step 4: Seek a Comprehensive Assessment

Neurodiversity assessments are typically completed by a multidisciplinary team which may include:

  • Psychologists

  • Educational and developmental psychologists

  • Paediatricians

  • Speech pathologists

  • Occupational therapists

  • Psychiatrists

 

Assessment commonly includes:

  • Developmental history

  • Parent interviews

  • Standardised assessment tools

  • Direct observation of the child

  • School or teacher questionnaires

  • Comprehensive clinical interviews

  • Parent and teacher rating scales

  • Review of developmental and educational history

  • Screening for other mental health or learning concerns

 

Step 5: Access Early Support

It’s important to know that you do not need to wait for a diagnosis to begin supporting your child, which can be helpful while you are waiting on the often very long waitlists!

Many kids benefit from:

  • Psychology support

  • Occupational therapy

  • Speech pathology

  • Parent coaching

  • Emotional regulation programs

  • School-based supports

Early intervention focuses on building strengths, increasing confidence and supporting daily functioning.

 

Step 6: Explore Funding and Support Pathways (optional)

Depending on your child's needs, some additional supports may be available through:

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

Children with significant functional impairment associated with autism or other developmental disabilities may be eligible for NDIS support.

Useful resource:
https://www.ndis.gov.au

School Supports

Australian schools may provide:

  • Learning support services

  • Individual adjustments

  • Educational assessments

  • Wellbeing supports

 

Step 7: Remember That Assessment Is About Understanding, Not Labelling

Many parents worry about whether pursuing an assessment will result in their child being "labelled." A diagnosis does not change who your child is. Instead, an assessment can provide:

  • Greater understanding

  • Access to appropriate supports

  • Improved educational planning

  • Increased self-awareness

  • Reduced frustration for children and families

For many families, assessment brings clarity, validation and a pathway forward.

 

Helpful Australian Resources

Raising Children Network
https://raisingchildren.net.au

Evidence-based information on child development, autism and ADHD.

Autism Awareness Australia
https://www.autismawareness.com.au

Resources, webinars and practical guidance for families.

ADHD Foundation Australia
https://adhdfoundation.org.au

Information about ADHD assessment, treatment and advocacy.

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
https://www.ndis.gov.au

Information regarding eligibility and supports.

Amaze Autism Australia
https://www.amaze.org.au

Resources and support services for autistic individuals and families.

 

Content prepared by Carlie Kowald with editorial support from AI-assisted tools.

Esther Pratten