(AD/HD)

Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder

Soaud DupreeEEC 4731

Milestone 1

What is ADHD?

ADHD- “a syndrome of attention and behavior disturbances that may improve when stimulant-type drugs are administered.” (The American Psychiatric Association, 2000)

Considered a neurobiological disorder. Distinguished by inattention,

impulsivity, and hyperactivity that cause behavior and learning problems.

Some facts…

It is estimated that about 2 million children are affected by ADHD in the United States.

Girls are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD.

ADHD is not considered to be a learning disability .

There are no specified medical tests for diagnosing ADHD.

ADHD Subtypes

Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive type –the child does not show significant inattention but shows significant hyperactive-impulse behavior.

Predominantly inattentive type- the child does not show significant hyperactive-impulsive behavior but shows significant inattention.

Combined type- the child shows both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

What to look for

Your child/student… Has trouble listening Is easily distracted Has trouble keeping attention in tasks Unable to focus on details Is forgetful Has difficulty organizing Can’t remain still Requires extensive supervision Talks too much

Medication

Ritalin, Cylert, Dexedrine, Adderall, Concerta, and Strattera are prescribed to children with ADHD.

These medicines are stimulant and antidepressant-type drugs that have a calming effect on children with ADHD.

Side effects of these medications include: loss of appetite, sleeplessness, a stunt in growth, depression, and even suicide.

Medication alone is the not a cure to children with ADHD.

Management

Each child requires their own approach to treating this disorder.

No one method can treat ADHD, combinations of methods appear to be the most effective.

Medications can be prescribed to help treat ADHD but often leave the child with unwanted side effects.

Behavior management and special intervention strategies successfully help treat children with ADHD.

Strategies in the Classroom

Assign tasks that allow the student to move. (passing out papers, running errands, feeding class pet)

Plan assignments where the work is divided into smaller chunks with frequent breaks.

Allow the student to switch work sites frequently while working on homework or other classroom activities.

Allow the student to do something with hands during prolonged listening (stress ball, paper folding, play-dough)

Give directions that are clear and easy for the student to follow.

Have a daily structured routine.

Sources

Textbook: Health, Safety, and Nutrition For the Young Child (Marotz)

Learning Disabilities of America http://www.ldanatl.org