ADHD DS refusing to do statutory work experience

[feemcgee]

Hi there, we are on the waiting list for a formal diagnosis for DS 15, but I'm pretty sure that, like me, he has it. They have to do one day of work experience and he is refusing to do it. I know it's because he's nervous, but they have to do it. Does anyone have any tips on how I convince him? I always end up saying the wrong thing and making it worse! This is the same for any new situation. I really want to support him but am struggling to do so.

How much flexibility does he have to choose what, where, when and who with?

Work experience isn’t statutory. It may be the school’s rules but it isn’t statutory.

Can DS explain what exactly he anxious about? For example, if it is meeting new people, can DS meet the people in advance with you? If it is being in a new environment, can DS do the work experience somewhere he already knows?

Luckily DH works for himself so DD spent a day mainly demanding McDonalds and troughing working with him.

Due to her language limitations she would have found it very difficult to explain why she didn't want to do work experience but the thought of it was clearly distressing her.

I wouldn't worry about it too much. DD went from about 50% attendance in Y11 to going to college, getting 2 different jobs and is now in an apprenticeship.

my DD didn't do it, she refused to engage and spent the week at school instead. It isn't a big deal, really.

I have asd and adhd. I never did my year 10 work experience however did do my year 12 one. I never thought I’d do it and the only reason I did is because I did it somehwete where a family member worked who talked me through what I’d be doing everyday on the way there. Might be worth seeing if any family members he’s close with can help

How is he now @feemcgee?

Hi there, thanks so much for asking, that's very kind. He's coming with me to work for the day as it takes that fear away and will be easier on the day. I know I need to make him go things out of his comfort zone, but we'll get there!

I think that's a great result. He'll get a taste of what a work environment is like but have a safety net to help him deal with it. Let us know how you both get on