Developmental
Autism
People with Autism spectrum disorder are born with a different view of the world in particular related to how they interact with other people. This is a genetic condition that leads to a hard wired difference in the way people process information that leads to a typical set of strengths and weaknesses. The symptoms of Autism are differences in social communication and social interaction, such as recognizing body language and intuitively assessing what other people may be thinking, lack of reciprocity with a difference in forming relationships, and secondly a tendency to develop repetitive behaviour and to be comforted by routines. Diagnosing this condition can help with education, support for the child and family as well as improved social function.
ADHD
This is the most common cause of education failure and can lead to significant risks both physically and socially. People with ADHD have a triad of symptoms that include hyperactivity, impulse control problems and attention difficulties. There is a typical set of strengths and weaknesses that are seen in people with ADHD. This is a genetic condition that effects approximately 5% of children and is persistent into adulthood for two thirds of children diagnosed with this. There are a number of strategies that can be very helpfull, and there are also medications that can help. Managing ADHD symptoms can help family function, education performance, and occupational function.
Developmental Delay
Children develop skills with a remarkably predictable pattern. These skills are typically assessed considering five categories of development: Cognitive (problem solving and thinking skills), fine motor skills (what children can do with their hands), gross motor skills ( large movements such as sitting and walking), Social function (how children interact and learn skills of daily living) and language and communication. Early diagnosis of problems with development is important as it allows early intervention with appropriate help that can improve function and the longterm outcome.
Behaviour
Children can have a large number of behaviour difficulties that can be caused by a number of issues including some medical problems. This can lead to stress both at home and at school. With behaviour problems in children it is very helpful to have information from home and school or preschool to hear how the behaviour is in different situations. Please print off and fill in the questionnaire to help with this assessment.