"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.