How to Explain a Diagnosis to a Child: An Interactive Resource Guide for Parents and Professionals

How to Explain a Diagnosis to a Child is a resource to guide parents and professionals through what can be a very sensitive process. This step-by-step guide includes templates and worksheets that can be tailored to meet the individual needs of the child and their families embrace who they are, regardless of a diagnosis. This may include Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Learning Disabilities (LDs), Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, Cerebral Palsy, etc. This guide may help answer those difficult questions regarding:

• Why parents decide to tell?

• Why parents may not tell?

• When to tell?

• Who should tell?

• What information to share?

• How do I explain?

Sessions include various topics such as celebrating differences, reviewing strengths and challenges, identifying learning style, understanding relationships, addressing questions about a diagnosis and others. This guide may help to build a child’s confidence and empower them to advocate for themselves.