http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpNVNOA825g

ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

ADHD is the general term which is divided into 3 subtypes1) ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive Type2) ADHD-Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive

Type3) ADHD-Combined Type

IdentificationA medical examinationA clinical interviewTeacher and parent ratingsBehavioral observations

Prevalence3 to 7% of the school-age

population have ADHD

Occurs more frequently in boys than girls

Is ADHD a U.S. phenomenon?

Causes• Neurological abnormalities• Pre-frontal lobes, frontal lobes

and the basal ganglia• Pregnancy complications• Hereditary factors• Family Studies• Twin Studies

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vHpK10WtnM

Strategies Post DiagnosisMedication

◦Stimulants◦Nonstimulants

Behavioral Intervention Strategies◦Create a routine◦Avoid distractions◦Limit choices◦Change interactions with your child◦Use goals and rewards◦Discipline effectively◦Focus on a specific talent or hobby

MedicationPros

◦Reduction of behavioral symptoms◦No physical addiction◦In taking the prescribed dosage,

medication is safeCons

◦Long-term effects are unknown ◦Psychological dependency ◦Mild side effects

Classroom Setup• The classroom is well structured.• Classroom rules should be clearly

defined and posted throughout the room

• Rows provide the best form of seating as group seating can increase the amount of distractions

• Students should be seated close to the teacher and away from other “problem” children and distractions

Classroom StructurePlace a copy of the daily and

weekly schedule on the student’s desk or folder

ORGANIZATIONMake sure that directions are

always clear and concisePartner or group workPeer tutoringKnow your student

How to make students feel important in the classroomPRAISE, PRAISE, PRAISEGive students with ADHD ample

opportunities to be classroom helper

Give the student feedback on his work and behavior throughout the day

Make sure you are giving the student enough personal attention during lessons and activities

Accommodations Give student extra time and

directions to complete assignments Allow the student to wear sound-

blocking headphones during workAllow breaks during lengthy lessonsProvide alternative areas for

reading/homework time such as a three walled cubicle

Find time to release energy during lengthy lesson

Parent interactionOpen communicationGive parents the weekly

assignments and lessons. Traveling notebook

Resourceshttp://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/

treatment.htmlhttp://www.adhdquestionsandans

wers.com/ADHD_Facts_and_Myths.html

Exceptional Leanershttp://www.azpirc.com/Download

s/Educators/StrategiesForWorkingWith%20ADHDStudents.pdf