Resources & Reads | Smartpaeds

Resources for Parents and Teachers

Navigating a behavioral and developmental diagnosis can be overwhelming for parent and children. Here are some resources on ADHD and Autism (ASD) to help you understand and support your child and family with your diagnosis.

ADHD - Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder

"The ADHD brain is like a sports car, but with bicycle brakes and the steering wheel is outside the car."

ICEBERG THEORY

An analogy for ADHD behavior is the iceberg, where observable behaviours and underlying symptoms exist.

This PDF from ADDITUTE magazine is helpful for parents and teachers to understand the presentation of ADHD.

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PARENTING WITH ADHD

Parent management is crucial and a major component to help your child thrive with ADHD. It also helps parents readjust their expectations and have a healthy connection (and less nagging!) with their kids. Read the fact sheet below from CHADD for parenting strategies.

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TALKING ABOUT ADHD

This page from Australian ADHD Professionals Association helps parents navigate conversation about ADHD and the language we use to be supportive and positive to our children and ourselves.

THE PAEDIATRICIAN'S ROLE

Assessment and management of ADHD is a collaborative effort from your paediatrician and educators, as well as parents. This article details what happens when you visit a paediatrician for an assessment.

Autism

The understanding of autism as a developmental disorder is still growing. The journey of understanding is an important part of management.

GUIDE TO AUTISM

This guide from Child Mind Institute comprehensively explains autism and the particular challenges for children with autism.

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES WITH AUTISM

Support for both the child and parent is important for families with autism. This article from Autism Speaks contains suggestions to help parents cope with the demands of an ASD diagnosis.

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AUTISM ACCEPTANCE

Autism is not a disease to be cured, but early intervention can improve the quality of life for autistic children. Acceptance from parents, family and educators is the first step to supporting an autistic child. This link from Autism Spectrum Australia talks about autism acceptance and encourages perspective taking.

AUTISM ADVOCACY

Here is excellent advice from Autism Awareness Centre Inc. on how to advocate for your child with autism in school. This is a journey that many parents and carers may need to embark on to help their child experience adequate support when participating in school activities.