(Belgium) "Rising number of students labelled with ADHD or autism"

May 2, 2025, Fraharas: Incredible.. How Highly Educated Belgian Parents Achieve the Unthinkable Success 

The impact of parents on the school careers of pupils with special educational needs is a growing topic of discussion in Belgium. On 2025-05-01 18:09:00, the Antwerp Leraarskamer gathered at Sint-Jozefcollege in Turnhout to debate how parental involvement shapes the support children receive at school. The conversation highlighted how highly educated parents can secure extensive measures, while others struggle to navigate available options

With the rising number of students labelled with conditions like ADHD or autism, questions arise about the fairness and effectiveness of diagnoses and support. How do these labels affect children’s school experience and future prospects? And what role do parents play in either accelerating or delaying access to help?

These concerns lead US to explore the real impact of parental advocacy and the stigma attached to diagnoses in Flemish schools.

Fast Answer: In Flanders, parental involvement significantly influences the support pupils with special needs receive, with disparities between highly educated and less informed parents affecting timely diagnoses and tailored assistance.

Why do some children get diagnosed quickly while others wait years? The debate reveals key issues:

Highly educated parents often push for early diagnosis and special measures, understanding their benefits.

Other parents may deny or overlook problems, delaying support for their children.

Stigma around labels like ADHD or autism still affects pupils’ willingness to share their diagnosis.

Schools try to balance special accommodations with inclusion, sometimes extending support to all students.

In Belgium, increasing awareness and resources are needed to ensure all parents can access and understand support options for children with special educational needs.

Moving forward, Belgian schools and policymakers must work together to provide equitable support and reduce stigma. How can we better equip all parents to advocate effectively?

And how can schools prepare students with care needs for life beyond the classroom? These questions are crucial for building an inclusive education system that truly benefits every child.