In this episode of ADHD Her Way, Johanna sits down with Amy Sketcher, a psychologist specialising in neurodivergence in children and adolescents. Amy works with kids aged 3 to 12, and explains how she uses play therapy as a non-directive, therapeutic tool to help them navigate challenges. She shares how ADHD can present differently depending on age—younger children may exhibit hyperactivity and impulsivity, while older kids and teens may face struggles with inattention, time management, and anxiety.

Amy and Johanna emphasise the unmet potential of kids with ADHD and the impact of their struggles with self-esteem and expectations. The conversation also delves into the coexistence of ADHD and specific learning disorders (SLD), highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and intervention to better support children and families. They tackle common misconceptions about ADHD, and Amy shares practical advice on the supports parents and schools can provide, including accommodations, targeted interventions, and helpful resources.

Key takeaways:

• ADHD presents differently depending on age—younger kids may show hyperactivity and impulsivity, while older children and teens may struggle more with inattention and anxiety.
• Play therapy is a powerful tool for helping younger children express and process emotions.
• Kids with ADHD often have unmet potential and face self-esteem challenges, but early diagnosis and intervention can unlock their abilities.
• ADHD and specific learning disorders (SLD) often coexist, making it crucial to provide tailored support at home and in school.
• Misconceptions about ADHD still persist, but parents and schools can play a significant role in offering accommodations and targeted interventions.

Sound Bites

"Play therapy is where toys become the words and play is the language of communication"

"Kids with ADHD often have unmet potential and struggle to meet expectations"

"Kids with ADHD often say things they don't mean in heightened emotional states"

"All Dogs Have ADHD book great because I can use it with reading the book and also real life examples of things that Augie does that are very ADHD"

"The Rainbow Brain and The Brain Forest are great, not just for those who are neurodivergent, but all kids, because it gives a bit of an introduction to what different neurotypes look like"

"Tracy Moroney's picture books that talk about feelings and how to manage them can be helpful in understanding their feelings and emotions"