Frequently asked questions

Guided Hands began with a simple idea fueled by deep personal experience and a profound passion for supporting neurodiverse children and their families. As a coaching service, we pride ourselves on personal attention and dedication. Our approach is rooted in quality and integrity, ensuring that everything we do reflects our commitment to empowering children with autism and/or ADHD to become the very best that they can be.

Information

At Guided Hands, we pride ourselves on our adaptability and commitment to excellence in every aspect of our service. Our aim is to provide personalised guidance that helps parents, neurodiverse children and their families to thrive. Explore what we have to offer and how we can contribute to your child's future success and your family's well-being.

My child has frequent meltdowns, what support can you offer?

We understand that frequent meltdowns can be incredibly challenging. Our coaching focuses on understanding triggers, developing coping strategies, and helping you and your child navigate these big feelings effectively.

 

My child is struggling to cope with everyday life. How can you help?

We work hard to understand your child and to provide personalised strategies to help you to guide and manage daily routines, transitions, and sensory input, fostering resilience and building self-confidence.

 

My child is easily overwhelmed. What approach do you take?

We guide parents in understanding why children feel this way and by helping to create supportive environments. We  teach self-regulation techniques to help children to navigate overwhelming situations with greater ease and understanding.

 

My child has big feelings and big reactions. How can we manage this?

Our approach helps to understand and identify the root causes of big reactions and equips both parents and children with tools for emotional understanding, expression and healthy processing.

 

We're concerned about delayed speech and language skills. Can you assist?

While we don't provide speech therapy, we can guide you on strategies to support and encourage communication, express needs and recommend relevant professionals if further assessment is needed.

 

My child has difficulty understanding social cues. What can be done?

We offer guidance on social communication skills, helping children to better interpret and respond to social interactions in a way that feels natural and comfortable to them. We can also build in sessions that encourage social interaction and effective communication.

 

My child has difficulty expressing themselves. How do you address this?

We work with families to explore various communication methods and develop strategies that support children in effectively conveying their thoughts, feelings, and needs.

 

How do I tell when my child is choosing to be naughty versus reacting to what they are feeling?

This is a common concern for parents. We help you differentiate between behaviour driven by intent and behaviour stemming from emotional dysregulation, offering insights into your child's unique communication.

 

Why is parenting so difficult?

Parenting neurodiverse children can indeed feel overwhelming. We provide a supportive, non-judgemental space to share your challenges and equip you with understanding and practical tools to enable you to feel more confident and in control.

 

Will I notice a difference in my child?

You should notice a significant difference in your child's behaviour over a period of time. Some strategies will provide quick solutions, others will take time to bring about change. It is a learning process that aims to set your child up for life, empowering them with lifelong skills, confidence and self-acceptance.

Does my child need a diagnosis for us to access your services?

No, a formal diagnosis is not required. Our support is based on understanding your child and their individual needs whilst taking into account your family's circumstances and the wider environment. We aim to provide practical, tailored solutions.

 

Will you work directly with my child?

Our primary focus is coaching parents and carers, ensuring that you have the knowledge and skills to support your child effectively. We may interact with your child during observations as part of our process and are able to work with them 1:1 if this is believed to be beneficial .

 

What happens during a group session?

Group sessions provide a supportive community where parents can share experiences, learn from each other, and gain new strategies in a collaborative and understanding environment directed by myself.

 

What is your experience in this field?

As an experienced teacher and parent of neurodiverse children, I bring both professional and first-hand experience, offering deep understanding, empathy, and tried-and-tested strategies that bring about positive results.

 

We feel incredibly challenged and tired. Do you understand?

Absolutely. We recognise that parenting neurodiverse children can be exhausting, and we are here to offer understanding, compassion, and practical support without judgement. We can also suggest ways in which you can look after yourself.

 

We understand that you care about our family.

We truly care about your family's well-being and are committed to helping you find joy, success, and a sense of calm in your parenting journey with your child's best interests at the heart of all we do. You and your child matter and deserve to be heard and respected.

 

Can I do it?

Yes, you can do it! We believe in your capabilities as a parent and will empower you with the strategies and confidence to support your child effectively.

 

Are you able to diagnose my child?

No, we are not here to give you a diagnosis. Our role is to provide coaching and support for neurodiverse traits and challenges, not medical diagnosis. Remember that your child is defined by their own unique traits and personality not the label that they are given. Understanding how your child functions in everyday life is the key to success, the diagnosis just gives an explanation for this.

 

What can make autism and ADHD difficult to manage?

Every child is unique, no two children with a diagnosis are the same. What works for one might not work for another, which is why our approach is based on understanding each individual, is highly personalised and tailored towards the specific needs of your child.

Here to help...

This is where your journey with Guided Hands begins. Find out about our personalised approach and how we're committed to quality and compassionate service. It would be a privilege to guide and support you to enable your child to flourish and your family to thrive.

We're glad to be here to share the journey with you...