SLP 335: How to Have the Hard Conversation: 8 Steps for Educators Starting the Diagnosis Conversation

SLP 335: How to Have the Hard Conversation: 8 Steps for Educators Starting the Diagnosis Conversation

Author: Sue Larkey March 2, 2026 Duration: 43:21

Join Sue for an upcoming Live Virtual Workshop where you will learn from Sue practical tips & strategies to make a difference.

In this episode, we will discuss:

✅ Meeting Tone: Be mindful of tone and choose comfortable environments.
✅ Positive Feedback: Always share four positives for every negative.
✅ Collaborative Approach: Work together with parents, don't be adversarial.
✅ Gather Evidence: Keep detailed behavioral notes with dates and examples.
✅ Professional Boundaries: Never diagnose or recommend medication as teacher.
✅ Documentation Trail: Email meeting summaries, next steps, and follow-ups.
✅ Red Flags: Monitor social, emotional, and academic development areas.

Read more about this podcast in the show notes found via the link below

suelarkey.com.au/talking-to-parents-diagnosis

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The Sue Larkey Podcast-Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education is a practical resource for parents, educators, and carers navigating neurodiversity. Hosted by experienced teacher and consultant Sue Larkey, this podcast translates complex topics into actionable advice you can use straight away. Each episode focuses on real-world strategies for supporting children and teens across the spectrum, including those with co-occurring conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Pathological Demand Avoidance. The conversation spans from early intervention through the teenage years and into adulthood, addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities at each stage. You’ll hear clear explanations of often-misunderstood behaviours, alongside evidence-based techniques for communication, learning, and reducing anxiety in home and school settings. The tone is consistently empathetic and grounded in decades of hands-on experience, making specialist knowledge feel accessible. While the core of the podcast is Sue's direct guidance, she frequently incorporates insights from other professionals and the lived experiences of families. It’s designed to be both informative and reassuring, offering a sense of community and practical next steps. For those who want to dive deeper, show notes often point to related books and downloadable resources available on Sue's website, extending the learning from each audio session. This is a podcast that understands the daily realities of supporting neurodivergent young people, prioritizing useful takeaways over theory.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Sue Larkey Podcast - Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education
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