I’m Worried My Daughter Has A Developmental Disorder

Variation in our children’s traits, strengths and weaknesses is normal. If you are concerned that your daughter is struggling in a particular area or with a particular skill, despite behavioural intervention (such as tutoring), and your child’s teachers agree that she is struggling, speak with your GP, or one of our psychology team about a psycho-educational assessment.

Some parents are hesitant to have their child assessed. Advantages of having your struggling child assessed include:

  • Assessment means the appropriate intervention can be applied. 
  • Intervention puts your child on a ‘level playing field’ to others, so she can reach her potential.
  • Assessment and intervention can be hugely beneficial for self-esteem. Children who are left undiagnosed with a developmental disorder often experience anxiety and depression and feel inadequate when they can’t do something no matter how hard they try. An accurate diagnosis can bring them relief. 
  • A diagnosis may entitle your daughter to additional supports at school.

Note that any assessment or diagnosis is part of your daughter’s confidential health record. It is not recorded anywhere without parental/mature minor consent, and even then, only shared with consent on a need-to-know basis. Confidentiality is paramount. 

Links to information about the most common learning and developmental disorders are provided below. 

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