UNDERSTANDING Autism, ADHD, and How to Support Our Children

Many Black Caribbean families in Birmingham face late recognition, misunderstanding, or stigma when it comes to Autism and ADHD.

Children are often labelled as “naughty,” “defiant,” “not trying,” or “disrespectful,” when in reality they are struggling with brain-based

differences that have never been explained. This project has been created to support Black Caribbean parents, grandparents, and carers

to understand their children’s needs without judgement, pressure, or stigma.

Why This Matters

Across the UK, Black Caribbean children are:

• Less likely to be identified early

• More likely to be misunderstood in school settings

• More likely to face exclusions or behaviour reports

• Less likely to access assessment or support

• More likely to have their behaviour viewed through a disciplinary lens instead of a neurodivergent one

This means many families are left trying to cope alone — often feeling unheard, dismissed, or blamed.

Birmingham Family Support

What This Session Will Cover

This workshop is a safe and culturally sensitive space where we will explore:

✔ Understanding Autism & ADHD
How these conditions actually present in Black Caribbean children — including how traits can look different from stereotypical examples.

✔ Executive Functioning
The brain skills behind behaviour: organisation, emotional regulation, focus, memory, transitions, and why many children struggle here.

✔ Sensory Processing
Why some children become overwhelmed, shut down, avoid certain environments, or react strongly to noise, touch, or crowded spaces.

✔ Stigma, Silence & Cultural Barriers
We gently address the stigma around neurodiversity that exists in many communities:
“It’s just bad behaviour.”
“They need more discipline.”
“They’ll grow out of it.”
These beliefs are common — but they stop children from getting the help they need.

✔ How to Support Your Child
Practical strategies you can use at home, in the community, and when speaking to schools or professionals.