🌴 Autism vs. ADHD: What’s the Difference?

At Fun 4 Kids, we meet a lot of amazing families across the Florida Keys who are trying to understand the unique ways their children experience the world. One question we hear often is:

“How do I know if my child has Autism, ADHD, or maybe even both?”

It’s a great question — and an important one.

Both Autism and ADHD affect how children behave, learn, and interact with others. While they can share similar traits, like difficulty focusing, emotional outbursts, or social challenges, they are two different diagnoses — and knowing the difference can help families find the right support.

🧠 ADHD in a Nutshell

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is most often recognized by:

• Trouble paying attention

• Impulsive behavior

• Hyperactivity or restlessness

• Difficulty staying organized

Kids with ADHD may interrupt conversations, jump from one activity to another, or struggle to sit still — not because they’re “bad,” but because their brains are always on the move.

🧩 Autism in a Nutshell

Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD) typically shows up as:

• Differences in communication and social interaction

• A need for routine or structure

• Sensory sensitivities (e.g., lights, textures, sounds)

• Deep focus on specific interests

Children with Autism may struggle with things like eye contact, interpreting facial expressions, or transitioning between tasks — and they often find comfort in predictable routines and activities.

🌟 What If It’s Both?

Here’s something many families don’t realize:

A child can be diagnosed with both Autism and ADHD. In fact, dual diagnosis is common.

That’s why at Fun 4 Kids, our team takes time to understand each child as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. Whether your child has one diagnosis, both, or is still being evaluated, we’re here to help guide your next steps.

🧩 How ABA Therapy Fits In

If your child has been diagnosed with Autism — or is showing signs — ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) can make a big difference. At our Florida Keys office, we provide personalized ABA therapy to help children build communication skills, reduce frustration, and increase independence — all while making therapy fun and engaging.

Our team works closely with families to support each child’s unique needs — whether they’re navigating routines, learning social skills, or managing big emotions.

💬 You’re Not Alone — Let’s Talk

Whether you’re just beginning to ask questions, or your child already has a diagnosis, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

We invite families from Key Largo to Key West to reach out with any questions — big or small. Because when we understand our children better, we can support them in all the ways they deserve.

📞 Call us or send us a message — we’d love to talk about how ABA therapy can help your child thrive.

Complexities of Defining ADHD :: The Coded Message. https://www.thecodedmessage.com/posts/adhd-philosophy/