In this episode, Claire welcomes Hannah Hampton - mum to 3 daughters, 2 of whom have been diagnosed with ADHD. Hannah introduces us to two very different presentations of ADHD in her eldest and middle girls and some of their unique strengths, character traits and preferences. 

Hannah shares some of the early signs of ADHD she noticed in her eldest daughter, even as far back as baby and toddler classes, including her early love of ‘art’ (such as car seat graffiti!). As a highly active toddler and small child she had lots of energy she needed to externalise and as Hannah explains, this could sometimes prove challenging in a busy family environment. Once she entered the school system it became clear she was experiencing challenges around attention and focus. Hannah talks about the lightbulb moment that led her to realise her daughter's behaviour was markedly different from her peers and what action she took initially to confirm her suspicions and seek diagnoses - which came in the form of both Dyslexia and ADHD.

In stark contrast, Hannah’s middle daughter didn’t show any of the classic ADHD signs of impulsiveness and hyperactivity, nor was she struggling academically. Her main challenges were around emotional regulation and frequent outbursts. Whilst Hannah knew something was up, she was so different from her eldest, she just wasn’t sure it was ADHD.

Hannah shares the book she read that completely changed her view and helped her understand just how different ADHD profiles can be. She also talks through the journey of diagnosis for both of her daughters, what she and her family put in place, and what really made a difference to her daughters' daily experience, including school accommodations, medication, counseling and experts such as educational psychologists.

With some incredible advice on what action to take if you suspect your child has ADHD, how to deal with the emotions that arise as a parent of a child who has been diagnosed and a fantastic insight into the range of ways you can support your child, this episode is a must-listen, whoever you are on your ADHD journey with your child.

To find out more about Hannah and her work, head to: 

https://www.instagram.com/HemptonHouse

https://www.instagram.com/ottosam_design