Developmental Assessment for ADHD | Cadabams Child Development Center
A developmental assessment for ADHD is the first, evidence-based step toward understanding why your child may struggle to sit still, follow instructions, or finish homework. At Cadabams CDC, we guide parents through every stage—from the first phone call to the final follow-up—so that you feel informed, confident, and hopeful about your child’s future.
1. What Is a Developmental Assessment for ADHD?
Definition and Purpose
A developmental assessment for ADHD is a structured, in-depth evaluation designed to determine whether your child meets the criteria for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It looks at attention, impulsivity, activity levels, and how these behaviors affect daily life at home, school, and in social settings. An accurate ADHD diagnosis is the primary goal.
Difference Between Screening and Full Evaluation
- Screening (10–15 minutes): Quick questionnaires to flag possible concerns.
- Full Evaluation (2–4 hours): Detailed interviews, standardized tests, and observations that confirm or rule out ADHD.
Why Early Assessment Matters
Catching ADHD early can:
- Reduce academic gaps
- Boost self-esteem
- Strengthen family relationships
- Lower risk of anxiety or depression later on
Early intervention for ADHD is key to long-term success.
2. Signs Your Child May Need an ADHD Screening
Common Inattentive Symptoms
If you notice several ADHD symptoms, an assessment may be warranted.
- Often loses pencils, toys, or homework
- Appears not to listen when spoken to directly
- Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort
Hyperactivity & Impulsivity Red Flags
- Climbs or runs in situations where it’s inappropriate
- Blurts out answers before questions are finished
- Interrupts games or conversations
Age-Specific Checklist (Ages 3–17)
| Age | Watch For |
|---|---|
| 3–5 | Can’t sit through a short picture book - a common sign of ADHD in kids |
| 6–11 | Homework takes twice as long as peers, indicating potential ADHD symptoms in children |
| 12–17 | Frequently misplaces phone, keys, or school forms, a hallmark of ADHD in teens |
| If three or more signs last for at least six months in two or more settings, it’s time to consider a developmental assessment for ADHD. |
3. Step-by-Step ADHD Evaluation Process
Initial Parent & Teacher Questionnaires
We send short, secure digital forms to you and your child’s teacher before the first appointment. These highlight attention span, impulse control, and social skills. This initial step is part of our collaboration with schools for ADHD management.
Clinical Interview & Developmental History
Our clinician meets with you to discuss:
- Pregnancy and birth history
- Early developmental milestones
- Family mental-health background
Cognitive & Behavioral Testing Tools
We use a variety of tools as part of a comprehensive psychological assessment for ADHD.
- Conners Rating Scales: Tracks attention and hyperactivity
- WISC-V: Measures overall cognitive ability
- Continuous Performance Test (CPT): Assesses sustained attention on a computer task All tests are play-based for younger children, sometimes incorporating elements of play therapy for ADHD, and gamified for teens to keep stress low and engagement high.
4. Understanding DSM-5 ADHD Criteria
Symptom Threshold by Age Group
The ADHD diagnosis in DSM specifies the number of symptoms needed.
- Kids ≤16: Need 6 or more inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
- Teens ≥17 & Adults: Need 5 or more symptoms, especially for teens
Duration and Setting Requirements
- Symptoms must be present for at least 6 months
- Symptoms must appear in two or more environments (home, school, social)
Ruling Out Other Conditions
Our ADHD assessments screen for:
- Learning disorders
- Anxiety or depression
- Sensory processing issues
- Sleep disorders This ensures your child receives the right support, not just an ADHD label.
5. What Happens After Diagnosis?
Personalized Treatment Plan Options
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, we create a personalized ADHD treatment plan.
- Behavior therapy: Parent-child interaction training, social-skills groups
- School support: IEP or 504 Plan accommodations
- Medication consultation: When appropriate, coordinated with your pediatrician
Parent Training & School Support
- Monthly parenting workshops for ADHD at Cadabams CDC
- Teacher liaison calls to align classroom strategies
- Home behavior-tracking apps with real-time feedback offering parental support for ADHD
Follow-Up & Progress Monitoring
- 30-day check-in to review goals
- Re-assessment every 6–12 months
- Annual update of the treatment plan as your child grows