Leo (Name changed for privacy) is a vibrant and curious boy with a deep love for space and astronomy. He lives with his parents and younger brother. Leo has a dual diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 2) and ADHD (Combined Type).
Presenting Issues:
- Impulsive Aggression: When frustrated or overstimulated, Leo would often lash out physically, hitting peers or throwing objects without warning.
- Social Disconnection: Despite wanting friends, Leo struggled to read social cues and often dominated conversations with his special interests, leading to isolation.
- Executive Dysfunction: Leo found it nearly impossible to start or finish tasks, from getting dressed in the morning to completing simple homework assignments.
The Challenge
Leo’s parents felt like they were constantly managing a crisis. The combination of Autism and ADHD meant that strategies that worked for one condition often clashed with the other.
Impact at Home & School:
- At Home: The household was chaotic. Leo’s impulsivity meant he required constant supervision to ensure safety. His younger brother was often the target of his frustration, creating a tense sibling dynamic. Simple routines like dinner time were often disrupted by Leo’s inability to sit still or regulate his emotions.
- At School: Leo was frequently sent to the principal’s office for disruptive behaviour. He was falling behind academically, not due to a lack of intelligence, but because he couldn't focus long enough to demonstrate his knowledge. He spent recess alone, often pacing the perimeter of the Playground.
- Parental Stress: Leo’s parents were exhausted and worried. They felt they were failing to meet his complex needs and were concerned about his long-term independence and happiness.
We had tried so many therapies before, but nothing stuck. The team at daar didn't just treat the Autism or the ADHD; they saw Leo. They built a world where he could succeed, and for the first time, he believes in himself.
daar Therapy Approach
Leo’s family partnered with daar to utilize his NDIS funding for a truly tailored Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plan. We recognized that a "cookie-cutter" approach wouldn't work for Leo’s unique neurodivergent profile.
Key Interventions Implemented:
- Dual-Lens Strategy: We designed interventions that addressed both Autism (sensory needs, social communication) and ADHD (impulsivity, focus). For example, we used a "wobble stool" to meet his need for movement (ADHD) while providing a quiet, low-light corner for sensory breaks (Autism).
- Interest-Based Learning: We leveraged Leo’s passion for space to build skills. Social stories were written about "Captain Leo and the Crew" to teach turn-taking and listening. Token economy rewards were "Space Credits" he could trade for time with his telescope.
- Executive Function Coaching: We broke down daily tasks into visual steps using a "Mission Control" board. This appealed to his structured Autistic side while providing the immediate dopamine hits his ADHD brain craved as he checked off tasks.
- Socialised Behaviour Therapy: We facilitated a small Lego therapy group where Leo could practice social skills in a structured, low-pressure environment. This allowed him to learn collaboration while doing something he loved.
- Family & School Collaboration: We held regular meetings with Leo’s teachers and parents to ensure consistency. We trained them on "pre-correction" strategies—reminding Leo of the expected behaviour before a challenging situation occurred.
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Results and Progress
By tailoring the support to Leo’s specific needs, we moved from "managing behaviour" to "empowering growth." The results were transformative.
Measurable Improvements:
- Reduction in Aggression: Physical aggression incidents dropped by 95%. Leo now uses a "Space Break" card to exit a situation before he explodes.
- Social Connection: Leo has made two friends in his Lego group and has started to be invited to playdates. He is learning to ask questions about others' interests.
- Task Completion: With his "Mission Control" board, Leo now completes his morning routine independently 90% of the time, reducing family stress significantly.
- Academic Engagement: Leo is spending 80% of his time in the classroom (up from 40%) and is actively participating in lessons, especially science!
Key Outcomes
Leo’s journey highlights the importance of tailoring NDIS behaviour support to the individual.
- Holistic Success: By addressing the interplay between Autism and ADHD, we unlocked Leo’s potential in a way that isolated strategies never could.
- Confidence & Belonging: Leo is no longer the "naughty kid" or the "loner." He is a valued member of his family and peer group.
- Empowered Support Network: His parents and teachers now have a toolkit of strategies that actually work, replacing frustration with effective support.
reduction in physical aggression incidents
independent completion of morning routine
new consistent friendships formed in Lego group
Conclusion
Every child is unique, and their support should be too. At daar, we specialize in creating behaviour therapy for children that respects and responds to their individual needs. Whether it's Autism, ADHD, or both, we are here to help your child shine.
If you want to move beyond generic advice and find strategies that truly fit your child, let's connect.
Ready to tailor a plan for your child's success?
Contact daar today to discuss how our personalized NDIS behaviour support can make a difference for your family.
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