Your Child Got a Diagnosis—Now What?
- drphcampbell
- Sep 2
- 3 min read
Next Steps After an ADHD or Learning Disability Diagnosis
Receiving a Diagnosis Is Just the Beginning
You did the hard part—you sought answers. You met with specialists, completed a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation, and now you finally have a diagnosis for your child. Whether it's ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, or another learning or developmental difference, you're not alone in wondering: What happens now?
At Grow Neuropsychology, we help parents take the next steps with confidence, clarity, and support. Here's how to move forward after your child receives a diagnosis.
1. Understand the Diagnosis
Start by reviewing the evaluation results carefully. Your child’s diagnosis is not a label—it’s a roadmap. It gives you insight into how your child thinks, learns, processes information, and interacts with the world.
Ask questions like:
What are my child’s strengths and challenges?
What does this diagnosis mean for school, home, and relationships?
How will this affect learning, attention, or behavior?
We always recommend sitting down with your evaluator or neuropsychologist to go over the report and talk through the implications in everyday language. This is done in a "feedback" session.
2. Share the Information Strategically
Decide how and when to share your child’s diagnosis with:
School staff (teachers, school psychologist, guidance counselor)
Therapists (speech, OT, mental health providers)
Family and caregivers who support your child
Sharing the right information can open doors to educational accommodations, therapeutic services, and greater support at home and school.
3. Apply for Accommodations at School
If your child’s diagnosis affects their learning, behavior, or social development, they may qualify for:
504 Plan (for accommodations like extra time, movement breaks, or preferential seating)
IEP (Individualized Education Plan) if specialized instruction or related services are needed
Bring a copy of the neuropsychological evaluation to your child’s school to request a meeting.
4. Begin Targeted Interventions
Depending on the diagnosis, interventions may include:
Executive function coaching for time management, organization, and planning
Speech and language therapy
Occupational therapy for fine motor skills, sensory needs, or handwriting
CBT or parent training for emotional regulation and behavior support
Starting early gives your child the best chance to build skills and confidence.
5. Build a Team—You're Not Alone
Diagnosis doesn’t mean you have to figure everything out on your own. Build a support team of professionals who can guide you and your child:
Pediatrician or developmental specialist
Psychologist or neuropsychologist
School team (teachers, ESE coordinator, counselor)
Therapists or tutors, depending on needs
Other parents and community support groups
We often connect families with trusted referrals and local resources right here in the Land O’ Lakes, FL area.
6. Support Your Child Emotionally
Some children feel relief after learning their diagnosis—others may feel confused or discouraged. Use age-appropriate language to explain:
“This is why reading is hard for you—but we have a plan to help.”
“Your brain works a little differently, and that’s okay. Everyone learns in their own way.”
“We’re going to use these tools to help you feel more successful at school and home.”
We also created a parent handout on how to discuss evaluation results with your child—this is provided at the time of your feedback session.
7. Make a Plan—and Revisit It Often
Your child’s needs may change as they grow. The most effective plans are flexible, individualized, and regularly updated. You don’t need to solve everything at once. Start with a few priorities and adjust as needed.
We recommend re-evaluation every 2–3 years or during key transition points (starting middle school, applying for accommodations on the SAT/ACT, or preparing for college).
Need Help Navigating the Next Steps?
At Grow Neuropsychology, we don’t just diagnose—we empower families. Our job isn’t finished after the evaluation report. We’re here to answer your questions, collaborate with schools and therapists, and make sure your child gets the support they need to thrive.
📍 Land O’ Lakes, FL | Grow Neuropsychology
🧠 Pediatric Neuropsychological Evaluations | ADHD | Learning Differences
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