What Is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can influence attention, regulation, activity levels, and executive functioning.

ADHD can present differently for each person. Some children may appear highly active and impulsive, while others may seem more inattentive or easily distracted. Many experience a combination of both.

​ADHD is not related to intelligence or effort. It reflects differences in how the brain processes and regulates information, attention, and behaviour.

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Common Signs of ADHD

Every child is different, but some common signs that families may notice include:

• Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks or play
• Easily distracted or frequently shifting between activities
• Challenges with organisation and following multi-step instructions
• High levels of movement or restlessness
• Impulsive actions or difficulty pausing before responding
• Strong emotional responses or difficulty with regulation
• Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine

​These traits can vary across environments such as home, school, and community settings.

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Do I Need a Diagnosis to Get Support?
Not always.

​Many children benefit from support before or without a formal diagnosis, depending on the service or pathway. Early support can help build strategies, routines, and skills that improve day-to-day functioning and reduce stress for both the child and family.

However, some pathways (such as medication, certain school supports, or funding access) may require formal assessment or diagnosis.

ADHD Support Without a Diagnosis

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How We Support Children with ADHD

Our approach focuses on understanding each child’s strengths, needs, and environment. We work collaboratively with families, educators, and support teams to develop practical strategies that support everyday participation.

​Support may include:

• Supporting attention, focus, and engagement in tasks
• Building self-regulation and emotional awareness skills
• Developing routines and structure at home and school
• Supporting impulse control in everyday settings
• Enhancing executive functioning skills (planning, organisation, task completion)
• Supporting transitions and daily routines
• Parent coaching and practical strategies for home environments

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Multidisciplinary ADHD Support Services
Depending on your child’s needs, support may involve a combination of services:

Psychology Assessments

• Emotional wellbeing and mental health support
• Cognitive and behavioural strategies
• Assessment support where appropriate

​Occupational Therapy (OT)

• Executive functioning strategies
• Sensory processing support
• Emotional regulation and self-regulation skills
• Daily routines and independence

​Speech Pathology (SP)

• Support with communication, social interaction, and language processing
• Social communication and conversational skills

Counselling

• Support with emotional expression and coping strategies
• Building confidence and self-understanding

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

• Understanding behaviour as communication
• Reducing distress and supporting safe, meaningful participation
• Developing proactive, supportive strategies across environments

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ADHD Assessments

If you are considering an ADHD assessment, our team can guide you through the process and help determine the most appropriate pathway.

An ADHD assessment may help:

• Determine whether ADHD may be contributing to your child’s presentation
• Identify strengths and areas where support may be helpful
• Inform school supports and planning
• Guide intervention and therapy approaches

​We work closely with families to ensure assessments are clear, supportive, and practical.

ADHD Assessment

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Getting Started

If you’re unsure where to begin, that’s completely okay.

​You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out. Our team can talk you through your concerns, help you understand your options, and guide you toward the right supports for your child and family.
​Book a free 20-minute call with our team

Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here

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Helpful Resources

We’ve created a range of free guides to support families exploring ADHD:

• Understanding Attention and Focus
• Supporting Emotional Regulation
• Creating Structured Routines at Home
• Strategies for School and Learning

These guides are designed to help you explore your concerns and decide what next steps may be helpful.

How Do I Know If My Child Has ADHD?

ADHD Checklist for Children

Early Signs of ADHD by Age (1-10 Years)

ADHD vs Normal Behaviour in Children

What To Do If You Think Your Child Has ADHD

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Have a question? or need more information

Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us a message

Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD Support

How do I know if my child might have ADHD?
Children with ADHD may show ongoing differences in attention, activity levels, impulse control, and emotional regulation across settings such as home and school. Common signs include difficulty sustaining attention, high levels of movement, impulsive behaviour, and challenges with organisation or routines. If you’re unsure, a discussion with your GP or a clinician can help guide next steps.

How is ADHD diagnosed in children?
ADHD is assessed through a structured process that may include questionnaires, interviews, observations, and standardised assessment tools. This helps build a comprehensive understanding of your child’s strengths, needs, and overall presentation. A diagnosis is typically made by a qualified clinician such as a psychologist, paediatrician, or psychiatrist.

Do I need a diagnosis before starting therapy?
Not always. Many children can begin therapy and support without a formal diagnosis. Early support can help build skills in regulation, routines, and participation. However, some pathways (such as medication or certain funding supports) may require a formal diagnosis.

What therapies help children with ADHD?
Support for ADHD often involves a combination of approaches depending on the child’s needs. This may include:

• Occupational Therapy for regulation, routines, and daily functioning
• Psychology for emotional wellbeing and behavioural strategies
• Speech Pathology for communication and social skills
• Positive Behaviour Support to understand behaviour and build supportive strategies

How can I help my child with ADHD at home?
Helpful strategies often include:

• Creating predictable routines
• Breaking tasks into smaller steps
• Using visual supports and reminders
• Supporting emotional regulation through calm, consistent responses
• Providing clear expectations and structure

Parent coaching can also provide practical, individualised strategies.

How can I calm my child when they are overwhelmed?
When a child is overwhelmed, the focus should be on co-regulation rather than correction. This may include:

• Reducing demands in the moment
• Speaking calmly and using simple language
• Providing a quiet, safe space
• Supporting the child to regulate before problem-solving

Over time, therapy can help children develop their own regulation strategies.

What environments are best for children with ADHD?
Children with ADHD often benefit from environments that are:

• Structured and predictable
• Low in unnecessary distractions
• Supportive of movement and breaks
• Clear in expectations and routines

Adjustments at home and school can significantly improve participation and wellbeing.

Can children with ADHD attend mainstream school?
Yes. Many children with ADHD attend mainstream schools. With the right supports, strategies, and adjustments, they can participate successfully. This may include classroom accommodations, therapy support, or individual learning plans.

What triggers ADHD behaviours?
ADHD behaviours are often influenced by factors such as:

• Fatigue or poor sleep
• Transitions or unexpected changes
• High-demand tasks
• Sensory overload
• Emotional stress

Understanding these patterns helps guide supportive strategies rather than focusing on “managing behaviour” alone.

What does ADHD support focus on?
ADHD support focuses on helping children participate in everyday life.
​This includes:

• Building regulation and coping skills
• Supporting attention and task engagement
• Improving routines and independence
• Reducing distress and overwhelm
• Supporting families with practical strategies

13 Littleton st, Falcon

Phone: 08 9586 3934

EMAIL US

OFFICE HOURS:         MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm

BELONG HEALTH'S Paediatric Occupational Therapy SERVICES FOR Perth region

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