Discover ADHD Assessment & Multisensory Learning Support in Hurlstone Park.
Optimise Learning with ADHD & ADD.
Whose lives does ADHD affect?
Were you aware that ADHD is among the most common neurodevelopmental disorders? It is typically identified during childhood and often continues into adulthood. Nevertheless, there is a rising number of adults who are receiving diagnoses for symptoms that were previously overlooked or not recognised during their childhood.
Whilst it’s normal for young children to have trouble focusing and behaving at times, kids with ADHD don’t simply grow out of it – the symptoms continue as they age. Symptoms can be quite severe and have been known to cause difficulties at school, at home, and with peers.
Defining ADHD
ADD, more commonly referred to as ADHD, impacts an individual’s ability to prioritise, process, integrate, organise, and recall information when required. It also affects a person’s ability to perceive the passage of time.
Within the realm of ADHD, there are different subtypes that individuals may be diagnosed with. The hyperactive variant involves difficulties in remaining still, avoiding fidgeting, and resisting distractions. On the other hand, the inattentive variant is characterised by behaviours like daydreaming, staring into space, or struggling to maintain focus. This particular subtype is often overlooked and can occasionally be mistaken for mild epileptic seizures. Parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals frequently fail to recognise the signs of inattentive ADHD. Additionally, there is a third subtype called mixed-type ADHD, which presents with both hyperactive and inattentive symptoms.
ADHD is commonly treated with stimulant medication which can be very helpful, yet medication does not solve all the issues for affected individuals.
The multisensory approach to learning for ADHD & ADD.
Students with ADHD find it difficult to learn in a standard classroom environment. We have found that the multisensory approach helps students with their written expression as the physical manipulation of ideas makes it easier to organise and retain complex material. We have used this approach for high school and tertiary students.
Utilising movement, employing different coloured cards, verbalising thoughts instead of solely reading and writing silently, and breaking down tasks into smaller portions are some tools and conceptual frameworks that we have found beneficial for students with ADHD.
Our approach is multisensory as we employ movement, touch, sight, hearing and speech to reinforce learning and engage students. We tailor our lessons to account for a student’s attention span and need for rest, and we are ready to move with students and extend their engagement while being sensitive to flagging interests and moods.
Students with ADHD may experience a sense of perpetual failure and disengagement from challenges due to their past encounters. We are mindful of their emotional struggles and aim to ensure that each session is a positive and empowering experience for them.
Multisensory Therapy and Tutoring for ADHD & ADD
It is common for parents of children with ADHD and adults with the condition to seek tutoring to address learning gaps. However, some students have spent a considerable amount of time attending conventional tutoring services without experiencing notable progress. This is where the individual therapeutic approach of Neurosensory can provide assistance.
The multisensory approach leverages practical strategies in the auditory, visual, and kinaesthetic (movement/touch) pathways to facilitate optimal learning.
What support strategies do our MSL tutors provide for students with ADHD?
It is recommended that they:
- Embrace the virtue of patience.
- Ensure revision is included in every session .
- Be flexible with the amount of work and break the learning tasks into small chunks .
- Vary the presentation and use games to capture attention .
- Incorporate movement throughout the session to prevent prolonged sitting .
- Maintain consistency with expectations and guidelines .
- Maintain a positive teaching environment .
- Never scold students when their attention wanders .
- Keep track of student progress and acknowledge accomplishments with rewards .
- Know when it’s time to move on to another task .
Available ADHD Tutoring Choices.
When it comes to ADHD tutoring, we provide two options to cater to the needs of primary, secondary, and university students, as well as individuals at higher education levels. Our goal is to ensure that everyone can benefit from the support offered by Neurosensory.
Traditional Face-to-Face Tutoring.
In-person tutoring involves meeting in a controlled learning environment, similar to the physical classroom, which can provide less distraction. In-person interaction can also help students with ADHD learn how to navigate social situations and interact with their peers.
Online Tutoring.
Online tutoring allows students to access help from wherever they are, whether they live outside of Hurlstone Park or have difficulties with transportation. It can also allow for more flexibility around school and social commitments, as we tend to lead busy lives.
Are you or someone close to you in need of learning support due to an ADHD diagnosis? Our team of ADHD tutors is here to assist you.
Evaluating ADHD & ADD in Both Adults & Children.
The diagnosis of ADHD currently does not involve any medical tests. Instead, it is primarily based on the observation of behavioural symptoms. For children to be diagnosed, they must demonstrate a minimum of six symptoms from either or both variants of ADHD, while older adolescents and adults must present with at least five symptoms. Additionally, these symptoms must have emerged before the age of 12 and persisted for a minimum of six months.
At Neurosensory, we can provide recognised screening assessments and letters of recommendation to identify people who may have ADHD. After our initial assessment, we can also refer them to appropriate health providers for diagnosis and any follow-up clinical treatment.
We want to highlight that a formal diagnosis can only be provided by medical and psychological professionals.
Answers to Common Queries.
If you have concerns about your behaviour or that of a loved one, it is advisable to consult your GP initially. They can refer you or your child to a paediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist for an ADHD diagnosis. Additionally, you have the option to schedule a child or adult ADHD assessment with us at Neurosensory, and we can assist you in obtaining a diagnosis through appropriate referrals.
When undergoing a child or adult ADHD assessment, you might be asked to participate in:
- Interviews (with yourself, your child, and/or with other primary caregivers of your child if relevant)
- behavioural assessment questionnaires
- Checks for developmental, learning, educational, and/or IQ assessments
- Checks for language, speech, and motor skills
Absolutely. A formal diagnosis often provides individuals with a deeper understanding of their life and the underlying factors influencing their behaviours. Furthermore, it allows them to establish an effective treatment plan that can bring about significant positive changes in multiple aspects of their lives.
Although most children are not typically evaluated for ADHD until they enter school, it is worth mentioning that diagnosis can occur as early as four years old. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in establishing the right support systems to enable children to thrive academically.
Certainly, provided that the tutor has prior experience working with students who have ADHD. Tutoring can have a significant positive effect on school performance by providing students with the necessary tools for academic success, while also reducing the perceived difficulty of attention and organisational challenges.
Individuals with ADHD thrive in learning environments that provide simple and structured instructions, utilise props and visual aids, vary the pace of lessons, and incorporate diverse activities. The multisensory approach is particularly valuable for individuals with ADHD as it harnesses movement, touch, sight, hearing, and speech to reinforce the skills being taught.
The Orton-Gillingham multisensory approach helps those with: Autism/ASD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, Reading remediation (students without a learning disorder), Generalised learning disorders, Maths, and ESL.
Based in Campsie, we are just around the corner from Belfield, Belmore, Ashbury, Canterbury, Croydon Park, Clemton Park, Earlwood, Ashfield and Hurlstone Park.
More Senses = More Engagement for People with ADHD.
Do you consider yourself a visual learner? An auditory learner? A tactile learner? Or maybe a kinesthetic learner?
People with ADHD have varied learning needs, and what may work well for one person may not be as effective for someone else. Multisensory learning is essential in engaging these learners, as it allows our tutors to integrate different sensory modalities to enhance skill acquisition and improve retention.
NDIS Support for Individuals with ADHD & ADD.
Unfortunately, having a diagnosis of ADHD alone does not meet the requirements for a successful NDIS application. However, ADHD may be considered as an additional factor in developing NDIS plans for individuals who have a diagnosis such as Autism or Intellectual Delay.
Are you excited to discover the benefits of multisensory learning?
At Neurosensory, we are committed to aiding children and adults with ADHD in achieving academic success. Whether you require an assessment for a loved one or are looking for an MSL tutor to offer support, we are here to assist you.