How Do I Get My Child Tested for ADHD?
Having your child tested for ADHD is a way you can support them and their learning needs. Getting your child tested isn’t about labeling them. It’s about understanding their learning challenges and behavior patterns. If your child has shown signs of hyperactivity or other ADHD symptoms and it is affecting their ability to learn in school, it may be time to get them tested for ADHD. But that may leave you asking, “How do I get my child tested for ADHD?” We’re here to help make the process simple and guide you along the way.
Recognizing the Signs of ADHD in Children
ADHD is characterized by inattention and hyperactivity. This could cause difficulty focusing in class, losing or forgetting things, excessive fidgeting and/or talking, interrupting, and difficulty sitting still. To be diagnosed with ADHD, they must show symptoms in two or more settings, such as at home and at school.
First Steps: Start with Your Child’s School and Pediatrician
If you are seeing symptoms in your child that you think could be related to ADHD, the first step is to make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician. Their doctor can rule out any other medical issues, such as sleep, vision, or hearing problems, that your child can not properly communicate to you.
After other medical issues have been ruled out, it is important to consult the school and your child’s teachers. Many schools provide behavior observations and educational evaluations that can give better insight into how your child is performing. Getting feedback from the adults who interact with your child throughout the day can also give a more comprehensive picture of how your child manages their daily routines and functions in different settings.
Schedule a Psychological Evaluation in The Woodlands, Texas 
An ADHD assessment should be conducted by a licensed psychologist or neuropsychologist. Before the tests, we will review your child’s academic and medical history and any behavioral reports from teachers. We will also conduct interviews with you and your child. The full evaluation takes several hours and consists of cognitive and attention tests.
Review the Results from ADHD Testing
Once we have the results from interviews and tests, we will meet with you to discuss our findings. This could be an ADHD diagnosis, a diagnosis of another condition, or behavioral and/or academic recommendations. We will share a written report with you to provide to your child’s school so they can help with the proper accommodations. We will also go over the next steps and create a support plan. This could include behavioral therapy, providing you with resources, school support, and/or medication management.
The first steps in providing clarity and getting the resources you need to help your child succeed are getting the answers through ADHD testing. If you have noticed signs of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, it may be time to reach out for help. We hope we have answered the question, “How do I get my child tested for ADHD?” and we’re here to answer any more. Contact us today with any questions about ADHD testing or to schedule an evaluation.