If your child is between the
ages of 6 and 12 and has
been diagnosed with
Attention Deficit/
Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADD/HD), you might be
looking for some
suggestions to help your
child. Here are a few facts
about kids with ADD/HD to
help you get started on the
right path.
A few facts up front about
children with ADD/ADHD
ADD/HD affects millions of kids; approximately 8 to 10 percent of the school-age population.
It is possible that another student in your child's classroom may also have ADD/HD. You may
find support in reaching out to other parents. Sharing common experiences could be benficial
to both of your families.
With ADD/HD, a child's capacity to pay attention, restrain movement
and/or curb impulses is constantly challenged.
A child with ADD/HD can still experience success in life, and many
children with ADD/HD already have.
But they can also experience significant hardships without a proper diagnosis of ADD/HD and a
treatment program. Early diagnosis and treatment of ADD/HD symptoms are extremely
important for children with ADD/HD.
Some symptoms or signs can be:
 | | Squirmy and fidgety
|
 | | Difficulty remaining seated
|
 | | Easily distracted, difficulty focusing
|
 | | Difficulty waiting in line, taking turns.
|
 | | Interrupts
|
 | | Difficulty following directions
|
 | | Moves from one activity to another
|
 | | Talks excessively
|
 | | Loses things
|
 | | Often times forgetful |
| | |
When this behavior becomes disruptive to other children, especially in the classroom, teachers
will let you know. Ask for a description of your child's classroom behavior and discuss this
information with your child's doctor. You can also set up a conference time with your child's
classroom teacher and work together to make the classroom more engaging. Follow up with
your initial plans every few weeks or so to check on your child's progress.