If you are worried that your child may have ADHD, it can be difficult to know who to speak to first.
There is no single person who handles every part of ADHD support. Parents may speak to several different people at school and in healthcare.
Here are some of the main people and organisations you may come across.
Your Child’s Teacher
A teacher can be a useful first person to speak to, especially if you are noticing difficulties with things such as:
- concentration
- organisation
- following instructions
- completing work
- restlessness
- friendships
- emotional reactions
Ask whether the school is noticing similar patterns.
This is important because professionals assessing ADHD often want to understand what is happening in more than one setting, such as both home and school.
The SENCO
Most schools have a SENCO – Special Educational Needs Coordinator.
The SENCO helps organise support for children who may have additional educational needs.
You can speak to the SENCO about:
- difficulties your child is experiencing at school
- support or adjustments that may help
- behaviour or learning patterns
- feedback from teachers
- evidence that may be useful if an assessment is considered
You do not need an ADHD diagnosis before speaking to the SENCO about concerns.
Your GP
Your GP is often an important point of contact if you think your child may need an ADHD assessment.
It can help to go to the appointment prepared with clear examples rather than simply saying, “I think my child has ADHD.”
You might take information about:
- what you have noticed
- when the difficulties started
- how often they happen
- how they affect everyday life
- what school has noticed
- what support has already been tried
Your GP can discuss the appropriate next steps and the referral options available in your area.
School Nurses
Some families may also have contact with a school nurse.
School nurses can sometimes help with concerns about a child’s wellbeing, development or behaviour and may be able to advise parents about other services available locally.
Exactly what they can offer varies between areas.
ADHD Assessment Professionals
If your child is referred for an ADHD assessment, they may eventually be seen by professionals with specialist experience in ADHD.
Depending on the service, this might include professionals such as:
- paediatricians
- psychiatrists
- psychologists
- specialist ADHD clinicians
These professionals may look at information from parents, the child, school and other relevant sources before reaching a conclusion.
A checklist by itself cannot diagnose ADHD.
Why Keeping Evidence Helps
Parents are often trying to remember months or even years of examples during a relatively short meeting.
Writing things down beforehand can make those conversations much easier.
For example, instead of saying:
“He never concentrates.”
you may be able to explain:
“During homework he often leaves the table three or four times within 20 minutes and needs repeated reminders to return to the task.”
Specific examples give teachers and healthcare professionals a clearer picture of what you are seeing.
You Don’t Have to Work It All Out Alone
If you are concerned, a sensible starting point is usually to record what you are noticing, speak to school and discuss your concerns with your GP.
NeuroInsight Health ADHD Parent Evidence Packs help parents organise observations, collect home and school evidence, prepare for SENCO meetings and get ready for GP conversations.
Our resources help with preparation and organisation. They do not diagnose ADHD or replace professional medical or educational advice