By Rebecca Reidy Bunn, PhD – Junior Neuropsychology Postdoctoral Fellow
If you’re exploring whether your child might have ADHD, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. At Sasco River Center, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when your child is struggling with attention, focus, or impulse control. This guide will walk you through what ADHD is, what to expect from an evaluation, and how early support can make a big difference.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a brain-based condition that affects how children focus, regulate their energy, and manage impulses. While symptoms usually start in early childhood, it’s not uncommon for challenges to become more noticeable later, especially as demands grow at school or home. A key part of understanding ADHD involves looking closely at your child’s developmental history, behaviors, and how they manage daily responsibilities.
The Different Types of ADHD
ADHD presents differently in each child, but there are three primary types we consider during evaluation:
- Inattentive Type: These children may seem like they’re daydreaming, miss details, forget instructions, or struggle to stay organized.
- Hyperactive/Impulsive Type: Kids with this presentation often seem like they’re always on the go. They may have trouble sitting still, speak out of turn, or act without thinking.
- Combined Type: At times, children have significant difficulties with both inattentiveness and hyperactivity/impulsivity. This is called the combined presentation.
What’s Involved in an ADHD Evaluation?
An ADHD evaluation is more than just checking a list of behaviors. We take time to understand the full picture of your child’s strengths and challenges, including how they think, learn, and manage emotions.
Here’s what’s typically included:
- Developmental and Behavioral History: We talk with you about your child’s early development and current routines to look for patterns over time.
- Cognitive Testing: This includes tasks that measure memory, processing speed, verbal reasoning, and problem-solving—areas that can be affected by ADHD.
- Parent and Teacher Feedback: Because ADHD affects kids in more than one setting, we gather insights from both home and school to better understand your child’s experience.
- Attention and Executive Functioning Skills: These are critical skills like planning, organizing, starting tasks, and staying flexible. Evaluating these areas helps us understand how your child manages daily demands.
- Academic Screening: We often assess your child’s academic skills to see if attention challenges have affected learning and to check for possible learning disabilities, which can occur alongside ADHD.
- Fine Motor Skills: Sometimes kids with ADHD also struggle with writing or coordination. We screen for these areas as well, so nothing is missed.
When Should You Consider an Evaluation?
If your child seems to be struggling with attention, behavior, or emotional regulation—especially if it’s affecting their schoolwork, friendships, or confidence—it’s a good idea to check in. Early understanding and support can improve not just academics, but self-esteem, relationships, and emotional well-being.
At Sasco River Center, we’re here to help you navigate this journey with care and expertise. An evaluation is not a label—it’s a way to unlock the tools and strategies your child needs to thrive.
Click here to learn more about our ADHD evaluations and how we can support your family.
Commitment to Inclusivity: Sasco River Center is an equal opportunity organization, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, disability, color, size, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic background. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all clients and colleagues.