Autism-Therapy-for-ADHD: A Practical Guide for Parents from Cadabams CDC
If your child has both autism and ADHD, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Autism-therapy-for-ADHD blends proven strategies from both conditions to create a single, supportive plan. At Cadabams CDC, we specialise in turning complex diagnoses into clear, hopeful steps forward for children and parents alike.
How Autism and ADHD Overlap—and Why a Combined Therapy Matters
Many parents first notice attention difficulties, impulsive behaviour, or sensory overload, yet feel unsure which label fits. In reality:
- 30–50 % of children with autism also meet criteria for ADHD
- Shared traits include executive-function gaps, emotional dysregulation, and social challenges
- Treating both sets of needs together leads to better focus, fewer meltdowns, and stronger daily routines
Key Signs to Watch For
| Autism Indicators | ADHD Indicators | Overlapping Behaviours |
|---|---|---|
| Repetitive speech or movements | Constant fidgeting | Difficulty shifting attention |
| Intense interest in narrow topics | Interrupting others | Sensory seeking/avoiding |
| Difficulty with change | Forgetfulness | Social missteps |
Evidence-Based Therapies Used at Cadabams CDC
We never use a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, our clinicians combine gold-standard methods into a single autism-therapy-for-ADHD plan.
1. Behavioural Interventions
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
- Targets specific skills like turn-taking, task completion, and emotional regulation
- Uses positive reinforcement to reduce impulsivity and repetitive actions Parent-Management Training (PMT)
- Teaches you to set consistent routines and reward systems at home
- Lowers household stress and boosts cooperation in as little as 8–12 weeks
2. Developmental & Social Skill Building
- Social Stories™: Short, personalised narratives that rehearse new situations (e.g., visiting a noisy supermarket)
- Peer-Mediated Play Groups: Small, therapist-led sessions where children practise sharing, waiting, and reading social cues
3. Sensory & Emotional Regulation
- Sensory Integration Therapy: Swings, trampolines, and textured materials to calm or alert the nervous system
- Mindfulness & CBT-Based Coping: Kid-friendly breathing games and “thought-stop” cards to curb impulsive reactions
A Week in Therapy: Sample Schedule for Your Child
| Day | Morning (45 min) | Afternoon (30 min) |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | ABA – Task completion drills | Sensory gym – Swing & crash-pad circuit |
| Tue | Social Story – New classroom routine | Parent coaching – Homework reward chart |
| Wed | Peer group – Turn-taking board games | Mindfulness – “5-finger breathing” |
| Thu | ABA – Emotional-regulation cards | Sensory walk – Park scavenger hunt |
| Fri | Review goals & celebrate wins | Team meeting with parents & teachers |
Supporting Your Child at Home: Quick Parent Tips
- Create visual schedules (picture charts or colour-coded clocks) to reduce “what’s next?” anxiety
- Use “first-then” language: “First finish two math problems, then 5 minutes on the trampoline.”
- Designate a calm-down corner with noise-blocking headphones, soft textures, and favourite books
- Praise effort over outcome: “You kept trying to zip your coat—that’s persistence!”