ADHD Unlocked: The Masterclass

A 2.5-hour in-person Bay Paediatrics EPIC Masterclass for families navigating a new ADHD diagnosis – get expert guidance, real-life strategies, and a supportive community to empower your child’s success.

Are you feeling overwhelmed or confused after learning your child has ADHD? Do you suspect ADHD and worry what it really means for your child and family? Does it feel like you’ve tried everything to help your child, but nothing’s really worked?

You’re not alone – and there is a way forward. This interactive workshop will help you replace uncertainty with clarity, isolation with connection, and worry with confidence. Join a room full of parents just like you to gain the knowledge, tools, and hope you need to support your neurodivergent child.

What Is ADHD Unlocked?

ADHD Unlocked is a face-to-face EPIC Masterclass designed specifically for parents and caregivers of children with ADHD (or suspected ADHD).

In a single 2.5-hour session at Bay Paediatrics (New Zealand’s Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence), our experts will demystify your child’s ADHD diagnosis and arm you with practical strategies you can use immediately.

This isn’t a dry lecture or generic online course – it’s an engaging, hands-on workshop limited to just 25 people so that you get personal attention and real answers to your questions.

Led by Nadia du Plessis, an experienced child & educational psychologist, and Freddie Bennett, Bay Paediatrics’ Managing Director (and an ADHD advocate with lived experience), this masterclass blends professional expertise with genuine empathy.

We know what you’re going through – and we do things differently to get better results. Expect a warm welcome, plenty of “aha!” moments, and a judgement-free space to learn and share. By the end of the session, you’ll walk out with newfound clarity about your child’s ADHD and a tangible, bespoke action plan for the road ahead for your family’s specific situation.

Who Is It For?

This workshop is lovingly crafted by the Bay Paediatrics experts for parents, whānau, and caregivers who are facing the challenges of ADHD in their family, especially those who:

  • Recently received an ADHD diagnosis for their child – and are asking “What do we do now?!”

  • Suspect their child may have ADHD – and want guidance and support before or during the assessment process.

  • Feel overwhelmed, confused, or stuck – unsure how to handle meltdowns, school issues, or daily struggles.

  • Have tried generic parenting advice or so-called ‘incredible’ online courses that don't seem to fit a neurodivergent child’s needs.

  • Worry they’re failing or alone in their journey – and crave understanding and connection with “people like you.”

  • Want to help their amazing child thrive – turning ADHD’s challenges into strengths, but don’t know where to start.

If you’ve ever felt ignored, judged, or unsupported by well-meaning teachers, family, or ‘the system’, this masterclass is for you. We specifically designed it for families who are tired of feeling confused and overwhelmed. You’ll find a safe environment here – no stigma, no shame, and absolutely no blaming your parenting. Just evidence-based insights, practical tools, and a community that truly “gets it.”

Whether your child is 5 or 15, whether ADHD is newly confirmed or just suspected, you are welcome. We speak to the heart of your concerns and meet you exactly where you are.

Why Attend This Masterclass…

(Instead of Yet Another Webinar, Online Course or Book)?

There are plenty of ADHD resources out there – but nothing matches the power of an in-person, expert-led workshop. Here’s why ADHD Unlocked is a game-changer compared to online courses or piecemeal advice:

  • Face-to-Face with Real Experts: Get advice directly from professionals who specialise in child ADHD (and are parents themselves). You can ask questions on the spot, clarify doubts, and trust that the guidance is the latest and most accurate – because Bay Paediatrics is at the forefront of ADHD research and care. No pre-recorded videos, ADHD ‘coaches’ or cookie-cutter tips – this is personalised guidance in real time.

  • Community & Connection: In the room will be 11 other families walking a similar path. That means instant camaraderie and understanding. You’ll swap stories, laugh, maybe shed a tear of relief, and realise you are not alone. The group setting lets you learn from each other’s experiences and build a support network that lasts beyond the workshop.

  • Zero Judgment, Total Empathy: Forget the generic parenting blogs or well-meaning Facebook advice that doesn’t fit your child. We understand that caring for a neurodivergent child can be lonely and scary, and we’re determined to change that. Our approach is compassionate and down-to-earth. There are no stupid questions here. Instead of feeling talked down to, you’ll feel heard, seen, and supported every step of the way.

  • Cut Through the Confusion: Google can give you a thousand “tips” for ADHD – often contradicting each other. It’s overwhelming! In this masterclass, we distill the evidence-based facts and proven strategies for you, in plain English. No dense medical jargon or scientific mumbo-jumbo – just clear guidance you can actually use. We’ll bust common myths and misconceptions about ADHD, so you stop second-guessing and start feeling confident in your path forward.

  • Designed for Action: Unlike passive online modules that you never finish, this session is action-oriented. You won’t just listen; you’ll do. Through small group exercises and real-world scenarios, you’ll build a plan tailored to your child. By the end, you’re not thinking “someday I’ll try that” – you’re equipped to make positive changes right away.

  • Because Waiting Isn’t an Option: ADHD won’t magically disappear, and delaying help only prolongs the stress on you and your child. As ADHD New Zealand reminds us, “Whatever you do, the sooner you do it the better… The problem won’t go away if you do nothing.” Attending this workshop now means your family can start thriving sooner. Why muddle through months of trial-and-error alone when you can jumpstart your journey in one empowering afternoon?

ADHD Unlocked gives you something no YouTube video, course or book can: a live, empathetic experience that engages both heart and mind. You’ll gain not only knowledge, but also the confidence, connection, and certainty that your family will overcome these challenges

What Topics Are Covered?

We pack a lot of insight into 2.5 hours and we will tailor the content depending on the needs of the group. Here’s a taste of the key topics and skills we’ll touch upon in ADHD Unlocked:

ADHD Unmasked

Understanding the ADHD brain – why your child thinks and behaves the way they do. We’ll break down the science of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in simple terms, so you finally get what’s driving your child’s challenging behaviors (and brilliant moments!). We’ll also debunk common myths (e.g. ADHD is caused by bad parenting – false!) to relieve any lingering guilt or doubt.

Emotions & Meltdowns

Ever feel like you’re walking on eggshells, not knowing what might trigger the next outburst? We’ll teach you techniques for managing emotional dysregulation – both preventing meltdowns and handling them calmly when they happen. Learn why your child might hold it together all day at school then explode at home, and how to respond in ways that help them feel understood while restoring peace.

Routines, Rules & Relief

 ADHD often turns simple routines into complex battles. We’ll share strategies to bring structure and calm into your daily life. From morning routines that actually work, to homework and bedtime tips, you’ll discover how consistency and clear expectations can be a game-changer for ADHD kids. Say goodbye to nightly homework wars and chaotic mornings – and hello to smoother days.

School & Classroom

Navigating school with an ADHD child can be daunting. We’ll discuss how to work with your child’s teacher and school to set them up for success. We’ll also explore effective ways to communicate with teachers (or principals) so that you’re all on the same page. You’ll leave ready to crack the teacher communication code and advocate confidently for your child’s learning needs.

ADHD and Anxiety/Emotions

Many kids with ADHD also wrestle with worries or big feelings. We’ll touch on strategies to help anxious or sensitive ADHD kids feel more secure and calm. This includes simple calming techniques and how to create an environment where your child feels safe to express themselves. When parents learn to manage their own stress and model calm (we’ll give you tips for that too!), kids benefit tremendously.

ADHD at Home

We dive into everyday problem-solving. How do you handle it when your child just won’t listen until you’ve repeated yourself 10 times? What do you do when they hyperfocus on video games but can’t stick with a simple chore? We’ll equip you with positive parenting techniques proven to help ADHD kids. We’ll also talk about balancing boundaries and empathy – being consistent without crushing their spirit.

Connecting as a Family

ADHD affects the whole family, including siblings and your relationship with your child. We’ll discuss ways to strengthen your parent-child bond despite the daily chaos. This means carving out quality time, learning the power of positive attention, and making sure siblings don’t feel left out. You’ll also learn why looking after yourself (the parent) is crucial – dealing with ADHD is a marathon, and you need to keep your own cup full.

Building Your Child’s Confidence

ADHD can take a toll on a child’s self-esteem – so many negatives like “stop fidgeting,” “why can’t you…”, etc. We’ll show you how to spot and celebrate your child’s strengths. Learn how to reframe ADHD as an “advantage” or superpower in certain areas, and how to communicate that to your child. A child who feels valued and understood is more resilient and cooperative – we’ll help you nurture that.

The Path Forwards

What do you do on the days when it feels like everything is falling apart? We’ll help you create a clear action plan and be confident in your decisions going forwards. This is about giving you the tools, knowledge and guidance to handle anything that ADHD throws at you. Plus we share self-care tips and community support resources so you continue to feel supported after the workshop. You never have to feel alone or unsupported from now on.

We always allow flexibility to dive deeper into topics that matter most to you. By covering these areas, we ensure you walk away with a well-rounded understanding and concrete strategies for both immediate issues and long-term success.

What You’ll GAIN: Clarity, Connection, Confidence & Action

This masterclass isn’t just about what you’ll learn – it’s about how you and your family will thrive as a result. Here are the key outcomes you can expect:

  • Clarity: No more second-guessing or Googling into the night. You’ll gain a clear understanding of your child’s ADHD profile and needs. Finally make sense of those puzzling behaviours and separate facts from myths. With a clear big-picture view, you can move forward decisively and stop feeling lost. That’s the power of informed clarity – and it’s exactly what you’ll get.

  • Connection: Discover the relief of knowing you’re not the only one going through this. You’ll connect with a group of open, relatable parents who share your challenges and hopes. The peer support and friendships formed here can continue long after the workshop – whether it’s swapping resources or just having someone to vent to who truly understands. Beyond parent connections, you’ll also strengthen the bond with your child. As you implement what you learn, you’ll see more cooperation and understanding in your household, leading to a more harmonious family life. Remember, we’re building a community where families learn together and thrive together.

  • Confidence: Perhaps the most important gift you’ll receive is confidence – in yourself as a parent and in your child’s future. By the end of the masterclass, you will feel equipped and empowered to handle situations that used to feel impossible. Instead of walking on eggshells, you’ll have a toolkit of strategies and the confidence to use them. You’ll know how to talk to teachers, how to respond to your child’s outbursts, and how to make informed decisions about next steps (be it evaluations, therapies, or school supports). Imagine going from constantly worrying “Am I doing this right?” to saying “I’ve got this.” We want you to walk away with exactly that sense of self-assurance. And as you grow in confidence, so will your child – they’ll sense your positive leadership and feel more secure themselves.

  • Action: No more paralysis or information overload. You will leave with a concrete action plan tailored to your family. That might include 2-3 new techniques to implement at home, a plan to set up a meeting at school, or a decision to pursue additional support. Whatever your plan looks like, it will be actionable and achievable – we make sure of that. The very next day, you can start taking steps on your new path. This momentum is crucial; it turns hope into real progress. We’ll even check in with you afterwards (if you’re open to it) to see how you’re doing and keep you accountable. By attending, you’re not just passively learning – you’re committing to positive change, and we’re committed to helping you follow through.

  • Hope and Relief: Finally, expect to feel a weight lifted off your shoulders. The mix of knowledge, support, and proactive planning brings a profound sense of relief to many parents. Instead of dread about the ADHD label, you might even feel excited about the unique journey your family is on. You’ll see firsthand that with the right support, your child can flourish – ADHD and all. We aim to replace that knot of anxiety in your stomach with a spark of hope in your heart. As one grateful parent told us, “for the first time in years, we have hope.” That hope is fuel – it will keep you going on tough days and inspire your child to see the best in themselves.

In summary, ADHD Unlocked is not just an workshop – it’s the key to getting your family unlocked and unstuck so you have the freedom to thrive. You’ll gain knowledge (the “what” and “why”), skills (the “how”), and the confidence & community to put it all into action. By focusing on Clarity, Connection, Confidence, and Action, we ensure you get practical value plus the inspiration to create lasting change.

“The online courses weren’t relevant (I’m never going to sit through 12 modules of videos), and the ADHD coaches are too generic. You guys are the real experts and you make everything so easy…and it really works!”

Jamie, Parent of a 10-Year Old

Meet Your Guides

One of the reasons this masterclass is so impactful is the people leading it. Let’s introduce who you’ll be working with:

Nadia du Plessis

BSocSci (Psychology); PGCE, BEd Hons; MEd Child & Educational Psychology 

Child Educational Psychologist

 Nadia is a highly experienced child psychologist who has dedicated her career to supporting neurodiverse children and their families.

She has worked in schools and child mental health services for years, helping parents and teachers understand kids with ADHD, autism, and more. Nadia is known for her compassionate approach and knack for explaining complex issues in plain, parent-friendly language. She’s passionate about empowering parents with practical tools and showing them that embracing neurodiversity can unlock amazing strengths in their kids.

Nadia has run numerous parent training seminars and is a sought-after expert for her ability to connect with families. As a mother herself, she understands the real-life chaos and joy of parenting – and she’s here to share not just her professional knowledge, but also genuine empathy and encouragement.

Parents rave that Nadia “helped us see what was really going on with our son and gave us strategies that actually work”. Get ready to learn from one of the best in the field!

Freddie Bennett

Behavioural Change Expert, Guinness World Record Holder & ADHD Advocate

Managing Director, Bay Paediatrics

 Freddie is on a mission to give neurodiverse families the freedom to thrive.

He is a behavioural change expert who spent over 15 years advising the leadership teams of Coca-Cola, Amazon, Microsoft, Virgin Atlantic, Hewlett-Packard, Heineken, PwC, Vodafone and AstraZeneca on developing high-performance mindset, strength in adversity and leading through change. He has also spoken at the United Nations on the topic of resilience and been featured on the BBC, 1News, Seven Sharp, NewsTalkZB, Men’s Health, Women’s Weekly and the Dom Harvey Podcast.

As a neurodiverse dad in a neurodiverse family, Freddie knows exactly what the struggle feels like. Before his ADHD diagnosis, Freddie was ‘chronically overwhelmed’, depressed and unfit. After his diagnosis, he went on to cross the Sahara Desert on foot in ‘The World’s Toughest Race’, run across the frozen Arctic towards the North Pole, race 100 miles non-stop…and he’s a Guinness World Record holder.

Everybody talks about ADHD being a superpower, but Freddie is the person who proves what is possible once a person embraces their own unique mind.

 World-Class Knowledge + Powerful Conversations + Hands-On practice = Real Results

Ready to get ADHD Unlocked? Here’s everything you need to know…

Date: Saturday September 6th, 2025

Time: 2:30pm - 5:00pm

Location: Bay Paediatrics, The New Zealand Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence, Tauranga

Fee: $90 per person.

What’s included:

  • 2.5 hour in-person masterclass

  • Learning materials to take home with you

  • Light refreshments

Please note:

Tickets are strictly limited to 25 people and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis

“We got the diagnosis. Then we said ‘now what do we do?!’. And now, finally, we have the answers we were looking for. Thank you! ”

Sally, Parent of 12-Year Old

Listen Up..

Get the support you need from the Bay Paediatrics team right NOW…with the EPIC Families Podcast & Community.

We’re giving families strength in neurodiversity by bringing you support and guidance from world-class experts.

Click below to listen, join and discover how to think differently about neurodiversity