ScriptParents
How to tell your child (age-by-age scripts)
Conversation openers for ages 4–6, 7–10, 11–14, and 15+ — honest, warm, and never framed as bad news.
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Reviewed by people in this role
Kids usually already know they're different. Naming it gives them language and relief, not a label to fear. Lead with strengths, keep it short, and leave the door open for more later.
Ages 4–6
Your brain works in its own cool way. Some things are easy for you that are tricky for other kids, and some things are the other way round. That's just how brains come.
Ages 7–10
There's a word for the way your brain is wired — autistic / ADHD. It's not a sickness. It explains why loud places wear you out and why you can focus so hard on the things you love.
Ages 11–14
I want to share something the doctor helped us understand about you. It's a part of who you are, lots of people share it, and it doesn't change a single thing about how much I'm on your team.
Ages 15+
You're old enough to lead this conversation. Here's what the assessment said. What do you already feel fits? What do you want to do with it — or not?
There's no perfect script. Showing it isn't shameful matters more than getting the words exactly right.