Working with those who are hard to reach when #ADHD may not be suspected .
Val Ivens, our ADHD coach, writes:
The moment when a penny drops for a mum or carer is huge. It’s scary and frightening and suddenly all very real . It’s the start of a path, not the end, and not knowing what to do next is really really hard .
Today I met some brilliant, tough and funny Mums who are clearly dealing with a lot of “stuff” at home . No two mums were dealing with the same “stuff” but they were all really going through “serious stuff” that was causing stress and concern at home and school .
They came along to learn about ADHD as part of a three session series on challenging behaviour , ADHD and ASD. Whilst not all challenging behaviour means there is something more fundamental underpinning it, it’s good to know what you might be looking at .
ADHD was my bag. 20 years of experience with parents, schools and children and young people meant that I hoped to be able to cover some good basic “stuff” . My fascination with the neuroscience behind the condition meant I can also draw out visually the reason why behaviours are so very challenging . Yet so often totally unintentional.
We covered myths and facts, what’s happening in the brain, presenting behaviours and three rules to support .
There were a few pennies dropping . A few tears and endless relevant and thoughtful questions meaning the messages had hit home . Brilliant mums all. Tough decisions to make about next steps, and a good few myths busted .
ADHD Richmond changes lives . Our work informs, supports and offers guidance and a practiced ear.
It also makes waking up every morning so very worthwhile
