Making Telehealth Easier for Children with Autism, ADHD, and Other Developmental Differences: A Guide for Families

Simple tips to help your child feel comfortable and prepared for a video visit

For many families, telehealth has made healthcare more convenient and accessible. Video appointments allow children to receive care from the comfort of their homes, without the need to travel to a clinic or spend time in a waiting room.

For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental differences, being in a familiar environment can be especially helpful. However, video visits can also present unique challenges, particularly when children have difficulty sitting still, communicating through a screen, or adjusting to unfamiliar routines.

The good news? With a little preparation, telehealth visits can become a positive and comfortable experience for both children and parents.

Here are some simple ways to help your family prepare.

1. Help Your Child Know What to Expect

Children often feel more comfortable when they understand what is going to happen.

Before the appointment, explain the video visit in simple, reassuring language.

You might say:

“We’re going to talk to your doctor on the computer today. The doctor may ask you some questions or want to see how you’re doing. I’ll be right here with you.”

For children who benefit from visual communication, consider using pictures, a visual schedule, or a short social story to explain the appointment.

If possible, show your child what the video platform looks like before the actual visit.

2. Create a Comfortable Environment

One of the greatest advantages of telehealth is that your child can participate from a familiar place.

Choose a quiet, comfortable area with good lighting and a reliable internet connection.

Your child may feel more relaxed sitting in a favorite chair, holding a familiar toy, or having a comforting object nearby.

And don’t worry if your home isn’t perfectly quiet or organized. Healthcare providers understand that families have busy lives and that children may move around or make noise during appointments.

Your child’s comfort matters more than having a perfect background.

3. Keep Favorite Activities Nearby

Some children may find it difficult to remain focused on a screen for an entire appointment – and that’s okay.

Consider having a few familiar activities available, such as:

• Coloring books or drawing supplies
• A favorite toy or stuffed animal
• Books or puzzles
• A tablet with headphones
• Small sensory or comfort items

These activities can help your child stay comfortable while you discuss important information with the healthcare provider.

If your child has difficulty looking toward the camera, placing a favorite object near the screen may help encourage their attention.

4. Prepare Before the Appointment

A few simple steps can help your visit go smoothly.

Before your appointment:

• Confirm the appointment date and time.
• Review any instructions from your healthcare team.
• Test your device, camera, microphone, and internet connection.
• Write down questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Give your child an opportunity to use the restroom or have a snack.
• Log in a few minutes early.

If you’re unsure how to connect to your video appointment, contact your healthcare team for assistance.

5. Your Child Doesn’t Have to Sit Still the Entire Time

We understand that every child is different.

Some children enjoy interacting with people on a screen, while others may feel uncomfortable, distracted, or overwhelmed.

Your child does not need to sit directly in front of the camera for the entire appointment. However, your child must be present and available whenever the healthcare provider needs to see, speak with, or assess them.

Parents and caregivers can help facilitate communication, provide important information, and support their child throughout the visit.

Remember that a pediatric telehealth appointment is intended to provide care to your child, so the healthcare provider must be able to involve and assess the child as clinically appropriate.

If your child is not present, the healthcare provider may not be able to complete the appointment, and the visit may need to be rescheduled.

6. Communicate Your Child’s Needs

You know your child best.

If your child has sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, anxiety, or difficulty with unfamiliar situations, let your healthcare provider know.

You can also share what helps your child feel comfortable, such as taking short breaks, using visual instructions, or allowing extra time to respond.

Open communication helps your healthcare team adapt the visit to your child’s individual needs whenever possible.

7. Celebrate Small Successes

A successful telehealth visit doesn’t have to look perfect.

Maybe your child answered one question, looked at the camera briefly, or participated for a few minutes longer than expected.

These are meaningful accomplishments.

Positive reinforcement, patience, and encouragement can help your child become more comfortable with video appointments over time.

We’re Here to Support Your Family

At Elica Health Centers, we recognize that every child has unique needs and that healthcare should be compassionate, flexible, and family-centered.

Our goal is to work together with parents and caregivers to make healthcare visits as comfortable and effective as possible.

A little preparation, open communication, and a supportive environment can make a big difference.

If you have questions about preparing your child for a telehealth appointment, please contact your Elica healthcare team: (916) 454-2345

Every child is different. Your healthcare provider will determine whether a video visit is appropriate based on your child’s individual medical needs. Some conditions may require an in-person examination.

Source: Autism Speaks – Telehealth Tool Kit for Families and Providers