Supporting Children with Autism or ADHD: Practical Tips for Parents

with Dr Joe Datt, Consultant Paediatrician, Schoen Clinic Chelsea

When a child is diagnosed with autism or ADHD, it can feel like the start of a whole new journey for parents. While a diagnosis can bring clarity, many families are left wondering: “What now?” 

Beyond the clinical explanation, they need practical, everyday tools to support their child’s development, manage challenging behaviours, and create a more structured home life.

In this article, Dr Joe Datt shares practical advice and evidence-informed strategies to help parents of children with neurodevelopmental conditions thrive at home and at school.

Why practical support matters

Many parents, once they receive a diagnosis of autism or ADHD for their child, find themselves in urgent need of extra support. While charities like the National Autistic Society (autism.org.uk) and Young Minds offer valuable resources and information, parents often need practical, day-to-day strategies they can use at home and share with schools.

To help bridge that gap, Dr Datt shares his set of practical tools to support families navigating life with neurodevelopmental conditions like autism and ADHD. Here are some key areas that can make a real difference:

1. Establish structure and routine

Children with ADHD, in particular, benefit greatly from structure. Predictable routines help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and promote positive behaviour.

“Bring a level of structure so it doesn’t seem as chaotic,” says Dr Datt. “It’s important that children know what their expectations are.”

Tips:

• Create a consistent daily schedule (meals, homework, bedtime)

• Break tasks into small, achievable steps

• Use visual aids or checklists to reinforce routines

• Avoid sudden transitions — give plenty of warning and visual cues

Importantly, Dr Datt encourages a collaborative approach.

“It shouldn't always be directed by the parents. Encourage the child to ask, ‘What’s our shared goal?’ That way, they’re more likely to buy into it.”

2. Use positive reinforcement and rewards

Focusing on what children do well — and recognising it — is far more effective than constantly highlighting problem behaviours.

“It’s very important to reward children and give them a sense of praise,” says Dr Datt. “Praise helps reinforce good behaviours.”

Tips:

• Use sticker charts or reward apps to track daily achievements

• Give clear, enthusiastic praise (e.g. “Well done for tidying up!”)

• Reward effort, not just outcomes

• Focus on encouraging independence in small tasks

A simple reward system builds confidence and helps children feel a sense of accomplishment, something especially valuable for children who may struggle with self-esteem. It's also important to seek help for yourself if needed, so don't be afraid to contact our team if you recognise a need for additional mental health support in yourself.

3. Prioritise nutrition and a balanced diet

Diet plays a key role in the wellbeing of children with autism or ADHD, especially when sensory sensitivities or medication side effects are involved.

“Children with autism may not like certain textures or colours of food,” explains Dr Datt. “And children on ADHD medication may have a reduced appetite, especially at lunchtime.”

Key considerations:

• Encourage a varied, balanced diet tailored to sensory preferences

• Offer high-protein breakfasts to support focus and energy

• Monitor for nutritional deficiencies — a multivitamin may help if the diet is very restricted

• Be cautious with sugary supplements: “Some vitamins can be high in sugar and actually worsen symptoms like hyperactivity.”

For children on stimulant medication for ADHD:

• Monitor height and weight every 6–12 months

• Watch for missed meals, especially lunch

• Adjust medication if it severely affects appetite

“It’s about optimising the right treatment while making sure growth and development aren’t compromised,” says Dr Datt.

4. Support healthy sleep habits

Many children with autism or ADHD struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early, and disrupted sleep can intensify behavioural or attention challenges.

“Sleep can be impacted by both the condition itself and the stimulant medication,” explains Dr Datt. “And without good sleep, children can’t function properly the next day.”

Sleep strategies:

• Create a calm-down routine each night (e.g. bath, story, dim lights)

• Avoid screens for at least two hours before bedtime

• Cut back on sugar, caffeine and E-numbers, especially in the evening

• Ensure coexisting health issues (e.g. asthma, allergies) are well-managed

Some night-waking is normal, especially in younger children. The goal is to help them return to sleep calmly and consistently.

“Bringing structure into bedtime is just as important as during the day,” says Dr Datt.

When parents should seek further support for autism or adhd

If you’re struggling despite implementing strategies at home, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Your paediatrician, GP or therapist can help review treatment options, recommend specialist services, like ours at Schoen Clinic Chelsea, or provide access to parenting programmes tailored to neurodivergent children.

Final thoughts from Dr Joe Datt

Helping children with autism or ADHD thrive is about more than diagnosis — it’s about giving families the tools to manage everyday life with confidence and compassion.

“A balance of structure, praise, nutrition and sleep is absolutely vital,” says Dr Datt. “And involving the child in decisions wherever possible really helps them feel empowered.”

With the right strategies in place, children with neurodevelopmental challenges can build the skills they need to flourish, and parents can feel more supported, prepared, and hopeful.

Do you need support?

Schoen Clinic Chelsea offers specialist assessments and treatment for children and young people with autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions.

To book an appointment with Dr Joe Datt, please contact us here, email che-privateenuiries@schoen-clinic.co.uk or call our caring team on 0203 146 2300.