Raising a young child comes with many questions, and it’s common for parents to wonder whether certain behaviors are part of typical development or signs that additional support may be helpful. Questions around autism and ADHD can feel especially heavy and confusing.
At Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, we support families by helping them better understand their child’s needs and explore appropriate next steps without pressure or assumptions. Whether you’re in Taylorsville, St. George, or anywhere across our nine Utah locations, we’re here to guide you through it all.
Understanding the Basics
Autism and ADHD are both neurodevelopmental conditions that can influence behavior, communication, attention, and learning. While they share some similarities, they affect children differently.
Important
These conditions differ, but in young children, they can sometimes appear similar, especially during early development.
Autism and ADHD: Key Differences
Understanding general patterns can help parents have more informed conversations with professionals about what types of support may be helpful:
Feature | Autism Spectrum | ADHD |
Social Skills | Challenges with eye contact, understanding social cues, or forming relationships | May interrupt or talk excessively, but usually seeks social interaction |
Communication | May include delayed speech, flat tone, or difficulty understanding language | Usually speaks well, but may not listen or may interrupt often |
Behavior | Repetitive behaviors, strict routines, narrow interests | Impulsive, trouble waiting, frequent fidgeting |
Focus | May focus intensely on one topic or object | Easily distracted, difficulty sustaining attention |
How They Can Overlap
Some children show traits associated with both autism and ADHD. This overlap can make it harder to understand what’s driving certain behaviors, which is why thoughtful evaluation is essential.
At Bridgeway, our integrated teams collaborate to determine what’s really going on, so supports can be better aligned with the child’s individual needs.
Why Early Support Matters
Many families find that early support helps build skills in communication, emotional regulation, and daily routines.
That’s why families across Salt Lake City, Lehi, and Cedar City trust Bridgeway for early intervention. Our ABA services in Utah are evidence-informed and individualized, with an emphasis on collaboration and family involvement.
What to Watch For
Children develop at different rates. The behaviors below are examples that may prompt parents to ask questions or seek guidance, but they do not constitute a diagnosis.
Possible Signs of Autism
- No eye contact or facial expressions
- Doesn’t respond to name by 12 months
- Doesn’t point or show interest in things
- Repeats words or actions (e.g., flapping hands)
- Highly sensitive to noise or texture
Possible Signs of ADHD
- Constant motion, even when inappropriate
- Difficulty following instructions
- Talks excessively or interrupts others
- Struggles with waiting or taking turns
- Easily distracted by sights and sounds
If you’re seeking answers or support, it may be helpful to speak with a professional who can walk you through your concerns.
Getting an Evaluation in Utah
Bridgeway offers access to a multidisciplinary team that can help families better understand developmental, behavioral, and emotional support needs.
You can access these services across all nine of our locations, including:
- Taylorsville (HQ)
- St. George
- Cedar City
- Lehi
- Roy
- Brigham City
- Richfield
- Salt Lake City
- Riverdale
Contact our team to schedule an initial consultation and discuss insurance options, including Medicaid.
Support Options Available
Your child’s plan should be as unique as they are. That’s why we offer a range of services under one roof:
1. ABA Services
A structured, supportive approach is used to help some children build communication, learning, and daily living skills.
Learn more: ABA Therapy Utah
2. Mental Health Therapy
For kids with ADHD or emotional challenges, counseling can help build coping skills and improve focus and self-control.
Learn more: Mental Health Therapy for Children
3. Primary Care
Coordinated medical care supports your child’s growth, nutrition, sleep, and overall health.
Learn more: Primary Care for Families in Utah
4. Bridgeway Academy
Our in-house school program blends academics with behavioral and emotional support.
Learn more: Special Education Support in Utah
Bridgeway’s Integrated Approach
Bridgeway’s approach focuses on coordinated care, bringing behavioral, mental health, medical, and educational supports together when appropriate.
- Family-Centered Parents are part of the team, every step of the way
- Local Access From Riverdale to Richfield, help is never far away
- Bridgeway is always looking for compassionate professionals committed to supporting families. View Opportunities
FAQs from Parents Like You
Can My Child Be Evaluated For Both ADHD And Autism?
Yes. A child can show traits associated with both. A thoughtful evaluation process can help clarify which supports are most helpful.
Does Medicaid Cover ABA Services In Utah?
Many plans do. Our team can help check your coverage.
How Do I Know If It’s Just “Typical Toddler Behavior”?
Every child develops differently. If something feels different to you, it’s okay to seek guidance.
What If My Child’s School Has Already Raised Concerns?
We can collaborate with teachers and school teams to better understand your child’s needs.
Take the Next Step for Your Child
You don’t need to have everything figured out today. Taking the next step simply means learning more about your options and getting support when you need it.
Schedule a consultation to talk through your questions and explore next steps for your family.
Serving Taylorsville, St. George, Cedar City, Lehi, Roy, Brigham City, Richfield, Salt Lake City, and Riverdale
Visit: https://www.bridgewayihs.com or call your local office to speak with a member of our care team.