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Autism vs ADHD vs Developmental Delay
Understanding the Differences in Children
Autism vs ADHD vs Developmental Delay
Understanding the Differences in Children
If you’ve started noticing differences in your child’s development, one of the most common questions is:
“Is this autism, ADHD, or just a delay?”
This can feel confusing — especially because many signs overlap.
This guide will help you understand the key differences, while also explaining what to do next.
Understanding the Differences in Children
If you’ve started noticing differences in your child’s development, one of the most common questions is:
“Is this autism, ADHD, or just a delay?”
This can feel confusing — especially because many signs overlap.
This guide will help you understand the key differences, while also explaining what to do next.
Why These Can Be Confusing
Autism, ADHD, and developmental delays can look similar in early childhood.
For example, a child might:
Autism, ADHD, and developmental delays can look similar in early childhood.
For example, a child might:
- Not listen
- Have delayed speech
- Struggle with attention
- Find social situations difficult
What Is Autism?
Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects:
Common signs of autism:
Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects:
- Communication
- Social interaction
- Behaviour and interests
- Sensory processing
Common signs of autism:
- Differences in communication (e.g. delayed speech, limited gestures)
- Difficulty with social interaction
- Repetitive behaviours or strong routines
- Sensory sensitivities
What Is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects:
Common signs of ADHD:
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects:
- Attention
- Impulsivity
- Activity levels
Common signs of ADHD:
- Difficulty focusing or sustaining attention
- Easily distracted
- Impulsive behaviour
- High energy or constant movement
What Is a Developmental Delay?
A developmental delay means a child is developing skills more slowly than expected for their age.
This can affect areas like:
A developmental delay means a child is developing skills more slowly than expected for their age.
This can affect areas like:
- Speech and language
- Motor skills
- Learning
- Social development
Key Differences at a Glance
Communication
Social Interaction
Behaviour
Attention
Sensory Differences
Communication
- Autism: Differences in communication and social use of language
- ADHD: Talks a lot but may interrupt or go off-topic
- Developmental Delay: Slower development of communication skills
Social Interaction
- Autism: Differences in understanding and engaging socially
- ADHD: Wants to engage but may struggle with impulse control
- Developmental Delay: May interact at a younger developmental level
Behaviour
- Autism: Repetitive behaviours, strong routines
- ADHD: Impulsive, hyperactive, difficulty sitting still
- Developmental Delay: Behaviour aligns with developmental stage
Attention
- Autism: May focus intensely on specific interests
- ADHD: Difficulty sustaining attention across tasks
- Developmental Delay: Attention may be age-delayed
Sensory Differences
- Autism: Often significant sensory sensitivities
- ADHD: May seek movement or stimulation
- Developmental Delay: Not always present
Important: It’s Not Always One or the Other
Children can have:
Children can have:
- Autism AND ADHD
- Developmental delays alongside other conditions
What If I’m Still Not Sure?
That’s completely normal.
Most parents don’t start with clarity, they start with noticing something is different.
Start here:
That’s completely normal.
Most parents don’t start with clarity, they start with noticing something is different.
Start here:
Should I Get My Child Assessed?
You might consider an assessment if:
You might consider an assessment if:
- You’re noticing ongoing differences
- Your child is struggling in daily activities
- You feel unsure and want clarity
Can I Start Support Without a Diagnosis?
Yes.
You don’t need to wait for a diagnosis to begin helping your child.
Support can focus on:
Yes.
You don’t need to wait for a diagnosis to begin helping your child.
Support can focus on:
- Communication
- Emotional regulation
- Behaviour
- Daily routines
A Simple Way to Think About It
But remember: Every child is unique, and overlap is common
- Autism → Differences in communication, social understanding, and sensory processing
- ADHD → Differences in attention, impulse control, and activity levels
- Developmental Delay → Slower development of skills
But remember: Every child is unique, and overlap is common
You Don’t Have to Work This Out Alone
If you’re trying to understand what’s going on for your child, it’s okay to ask for help.
At Belong Health, we support families across Perth and Mandurah in understanding their child’s development and next steps.
If you’re trying to understand what’s going on for your child, it’s okay to ask for help.
At Belong Health, we support families across Perth and Mandurah in understanding their child’s development and next steps.
Not Sure What the Next Step Is?
That’s completely okay.
Book a free 20-minute call with our team
Or contact us to talk through your situation
Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here
That’s completely okay.
Book a free 20-minute call with our team
Or contact us to talk through your situation
Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here
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Your feedback helps us continue to provide support and information that benefits our community.
Stay updated with our latest resources and tips by liking us on Facebook!
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
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