Ask the experts: Dr Cassie Coleman on managing a child's SEN assessment

Dr Cassie Coleman, Clinical Director and Consultant Community Paediatrician at Dr Cassie & Associates, gives insights into the assessment process when a child is not thriving at school

Q: My son is having problems with focus at school and there have also been some behavioural issues recently. His form teacher suggested it might be a good idea to have him assessed, but I’m not sure where to start?

A: I completely understand how overwhelming it can feel when you’re not sure where to start. Many parents I speak to are in the same position, wondering which direction to turn, who to approach, and what steps to take next. The fact that you’re seeking advice is already such a positive step, and I hope I can help provide some clarity.

From the first point of contact, our aim is to guide parents through this process. It is about understanding your child’s strengths and challenges, considering whether an assessment might be helpful, and helping make sense of what teachers and you, as parents, are noticing. At our clinic, we have a team of professionals who work together to provide a holistic assessment. We are able to take the time to thoroughly assess a child’s development, general health, cognitive abilities, and current functioning at home and school

The process starts by gathering as much information as possible. This includes input from you and, with your consent, your son’s school. At our clinic, we use written forms and standardised questionnaires to build a detailed picture of a child’s experiences, both at home and in the classroom. This allows us to explore how these challenges might be impacting their day-to-day life – whether it’s the ability to keep up with schoolwork, manage friendships, or navigate home life. Crucially, when we talk to families, we also want to explore how these challenges might be affecting a child’s self-esteem. Your question suggests that your son’s teacher has mentioned possible signs of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), and it sounds as if you’ve also noticed some differences in your son’s behaviour at home.

I completely understand any hesitation you may feel about having your son assessed – particularly concerns about him being ‘labelled.’ Many parents we speak to worry that this could harm their child’s self-esteem or lead others to view their child differently. However, in my experience, a diagnosis is more about opening a door than closing one. It provides an opportunity for a child to better understand themselves as they grow. It helps to make sense of why certain things might feel harder and, just as importantly, why they might excel at something else. The assessment report we provide offers specific strategies and adaptions to help parents, as well as teachers, to ‘see’ the child through the most helpful and supportive lens.

On a personal note, I want to share that I understand the challenges you’re describing, not just as a professional but also as a parent. My own son has ADHD, and I know how daunting the journey can feel at the start. But I also know how transformative it can be to better understand your child’s unique needs – and to see the incredible strengths that come alongside the challenges.

Dr Cassie & Associates drcassie.co.uk

Further reading: Teen Tips on supporting a child through a tricky patch at school