It is a common behavioral disorder that affects an estimated 8%to 10% of school age children. Kids with ADHD act without thinking, are hyperactive, and have trouble focusing. They may understand what’s expected of them but have trouble following through because they can’t sit still, pay attention or attend to detail.

2.A hyperative-impulse type with signs that include:

-fidgeting or squirming

-difficulty remaining seated

-excessive running or climbing

-difficulty playing quietly

-problems with interrupting or intruding

3.A combined type which involve a combination of the other 2 type and is the most common.

-although it can be challenging to raise kids with ADHD, HS important to remember they aren’t “bad”, “acting out” or being difficult on purpose.

To be considered for a diagnosis of ADHD:

-a child must display behavior from one of the three subtypes before age 7

-these behavior must be more severe than in other kids the same age

-the behavior must last for at least 6 months

-the behavior must occur in and negatively affect at least two areas of a child’s life such as school home,daycaresetting or friendship

ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, too much sugar or vaccines.

ADHD has biological origins that aren’t yet clearly understood. No single causes has been identified, but researchers are xploring a number of possible genetic and environmental links. Studies have shown that many kids with ADHD have a close relative who also has the disorder.

•Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODO) and Conduct Disorder (CD)

•Mood Disorder

•Anxiety Disorder

•Learning Disabilities

•ADHD can’t be cured, but it can be successfully managed. Your childs doctor will work with you to develop an individualized, long term plan.

•In most cases, ADHD is best treated with a combination on medication and behavior theraphy.

Several different types of medications may use to treat ADHD:

Stimulants

Nonstimulants

Anti depressants

Behavioral Theraphy attemps to change behavior pattern by:

1. Recognizing a childs home and school environment

2. Giving clear directions and commands

3. Setting up a system of consistent rewards for appropriate behaviors and negative consequences for inapprpriate ones.

1. Create a routine 2. Get organized3. Avoid distruction4. Limit Choices5. Change your interaction with your child6. Use goals and rewards7. Discipline effectively

The only ADHD therapies that have been proven effectively in scientific studies are medication and behavioral theraphy.

oIn addition to using routines and a clear system of rewardsd, here are some tips to share with teachers for classroom success:Reduce seating distractionUse a homework folder for parent-teacher communicationBreak down assignmentsGive possitive reinforcementTeach good study skillsSuperviseBe sensitive to self-esteem issuesInvolve the school councelor orv psychologist

oYoure stronger advocate for your children when you feels good partnership with everyone involves in your childs treatment that includes teachers,doctors,therapist, and even other family member. Take advantage of all the support and education that available and you’ll help your child negative toward success.

m.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/learning/adhd.html

Received by:Richard S. Kingsly,MD Date received.Janauary2012