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If you think your child might have ADHD, the assessment process can feel daunting. This parent’s guide explains how a child ADHD assessment works in the UK, what information is needed, who carries it out, and what happens afterwards, so you can feel prepared and confident about the next steps.
This guide is for general information and cannot tell you whether your child has ADHD. Only a proper assessment by a suitably qualified clinician can do that.
How a child assessment is different
A child ADHD assessment relies heavily on information from the adults around the child. Parents or guardians provide a detailed picture of development and behaviour, and information from school is often very valuable, because ADHD symptoms need to be understood across more than one setting, not just at home or only in the classroom. The clinician builds the picture from these different perspectives alongside recognised questionnaires.
What the process involves
- Questionnaires completed by parents and, where possible, school staff.
- A detailed discussion of pregnancy and birth history, early development, behaviour, friendships, emotions, sleep and learning.
- Consideration of how difficulties show up at home and at school.
- Careful thought about whether anything else might better explain the difficulties.
How ADHD is diagnosed in children
Under the DSM-5 criteria, a diagnosis in children up to age 16 generally requires six or more symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity, with some present before age 12, evident in more than one setting, and causing real difficulty in daily life. UK guidance, NICE guideline NG87, emphasises a thorough specialist assessment rather than a quick screen, and a good clinician will always consider other possible explanations.
What happens after the assessment
You should receive a clear outcome with a written report and recommendations. If ADHD is diagnosed, recommendations may include support strategies at home and school, parent guidance, and a discussion of medication where appropriate, which is always carefully monitored. If ADHD is not diagnosed, a good report still helps by explaining what else might be going on and what support could help.
Support at school
A diagnosis, or even emerging difficulties, can open the door to support at school through special educational needs provision. Sharing the report with your child’s school can help them understand your child’s needs and put practical adjustments in place. Each school and local authority has its own processes, so it is worth discussing what is available.
A private child assessment
If you would prefer not to wait, a private assessment can be arranged quickly. At ADHD Diagnosis UK, a child ADHD assessment starts from £499, with a family-focused clinical review and a clear written report. You can book a child ADHD assessment online or see our pricing page for details.
Frequently asked questions
Does the school need to be involved?
Information from school is very helpful because ADHD must be understood across settings. The clinician will explain what input is needed.
How old does my child need to be?
Providers have different minimum ages for child assessment. Check the specific requirements before booking.
Will my child need medication?
Not necessarily. Medication is only one option, it is not suitable for everyone, and any decision is made carefully with monitoring. Support strategies are an important part of care too.
Worried about your child? Book a child ADHD assessment online from £499, with a family-focused clinical review and a clear written report.
This guide is for general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. It reflects recognised guidance including NICE guideline NG87 and the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Last updated 2026.