ADHD vs. Autism: Understanding the Difference in Your Child’s Behavior

When a child is struggling at home or in school, parents often find themselves asking one big question: “Is this ADHD, autism, or something else?” While ADHD and autism share some overlapping traits, they are different neurodevelopmental conditions—and understanding those differences can help families get the right support early.

At Bright Starts, we help parents make sense of these signs every day. Here’s a simple breakdown to guide you.

What ADHD Looks Like

Children with ADHD often have challenges with:

• Attention — difficulty staying focused, especially on non-preferred tasks

• Impulsivity — acting before thinking, blurting out, touching everything

• Hyperactivity — constant movement, trouble sitting still, restless energy

You may notice:

• Homework takes forever unless someone sits right beside them

• They interrupt conversations without meaning to

• They lose items, forget instructions, or rush through tasks

• Teachers mention “distracted,” “busy,” or “easily off-task”

ADHD is primarily about regulation of attention, behavior, and activity level.

What Autism Looks Like

Autism, on the other hand, involves differences in:

• Communication — delayed speech, difficulty with back-and-forth conversation

• Social interaction — not picking up social cues, preferring to play alone at times

• Behavioral patterns — routines, sensory sensitivities, or repetitive movements

You may notice:

• They avoid eye contact or don’t respond to their name

• They get overwhelmed in loud or unpredictable environments

• They line up toys, repeat phrases, or get deeply focused on a few interests

• Transitions or unexpected changes can be extremely stressful

Autism is primarily about social communication and how a child processes the world.

Where ADHD and Autism Overlap

Some children show traits of both, such as:

• Sensory-seeking behaviors

• Difficulty managing emotions

• Trouble with organization or transitions

• Strong interests or hyperfocus

This is why a full evaluation—not guesswork—is so important.

How Bright Starts Helps

At Bright Starts, we provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations to determine whether a child has ADHD, autism, both, or neither. Our specialists look at:

• Developmental history

• Behavioral patterns

• Communication and learning skills

• Sensory and emotional regulation

Parents walk away with clear answers and a personalized plan to help their child thrive.

When Should You Get an Evaluation?

Trust your instinct if you notice:

• School performance slipping

• Frequent meltdowns or emotional overwhelm

• Social struggles

• Difficulty with attention or communication

• Delays in milestones

You don’t have to wait. Early understanding leads to better support. Contact us today!