The teacher should be honest with parents, saying that he/she is not a medical expert. Teachers may certainly say something such as "Johnny is having difficulty staying on task" or "I had to redirect Johnny three times today because he was not on task." However, it is inappropriate for teachers to make a medical diagnosis. Teachers should refer parents to the child's doctor, and teachers may refer parents to guidance for more information.

Under no circumstance would I insinuate that the child has ADHD but I would describe the student's behavior and actions in the classroom. I would then refer the parent to a school counselor or school psychologist as they will be more equipped to handle this situation and can point the parent in the right direction.

I think you are right to tell the parent that you are not a doctor and cannot make a diagnosis. Keep parents informed on the behavior that you see and tell them that if they are concerned they can have their child seen by a doctor. I feel that too many children are mis-diagnosed with ADHD because children and their energy and interests are misunderstood.

I would explain to the parent that you are not a doctor so you can only give them things you have observed with the student and then let them know they might want to bring those things up when they see a Doctor.

Teachers cannot diagnose a child it is the doctors responsibility to do so. What the teacher can do, is share what he or she has observed during the day and recommend that the child should see a doctor and get it checked out.

Really, all you can say is what you are saying. We are definitely not doctors. Now, I know that sometimes it is very clear to us that a child probably has ADHD. However, we could never tell the parent that. You simply tell their symptoms and what you notice in the classroom. When they ask for advice all we can really tell them is to consult a doctor.

You are not allowed to diagnose a child.

Advise the parent that they should take the student to get a professional evaluation.