Kids living with learning exceptionalities

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the expanded term that encompasses what was first called only "attention deficit disorder," but one of whose characteristics was hyperactivity. ADHD comprises two distinct clusters of problems that can interfere with learning. A child with ADHD may be hyperactive and impulsive. Sometimes he has an inability to pay attention or focus on work, even for a short period of time. The two problems are often combined, and sometimes ADHD can occur with other learning disabilities.

Not all kids who show signs of ADHD actually have the condition. Some of them respond to a change in environment -- a more structured classroom, less ambient noise. Even an extra hour of sleep each night has improved the behaviour of some children showing signs of ADHD. If you suspect your child has ADHD, discuss his behaviour with your family doctor. You may decide to ask for a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist. The diagnosis of ADHD requires an assessment by a professional with experience in the disorder. For an accurate diagnosis, your child's behaviour should be assessed in every context -- at school, at home, and during other activities. If your child's behaviour is consistent in all contexts, then he may be diagnosed with ADHD.

ADHD is a neurobiological disorder thought to be caused by an imbalance in the brain's neurotransmitters, and it may require chemical treatment. Currently, the main medication for the disorder is the stimulant drug Ritalin. However, most parents are loath to put young children on a powerful drug that might have side effects. Also, Ritalin may not work for every child. Before agreeing to Ritalin as a treatment for ADHD, ask your doctor to administer a double-blind test to ensure the drug will he effective for your child. In such a test, the child receives the Ritalin for a number of weeks and then a placebo for the same period. The child, his parents, his teacher, and his doctor don't know when he's on the drug and when he's on the placebo, but they assess the child's behaviour during both periods to see whether there is any change. This process establishes whether the child's behaviour improved or not during the period he was on Ritalin.

Alternative therapies to treat ADHD include adjusting the child's diet and environment. The Canadian Naturopathic Association can provide you with information on licensed naruropathic doctors in your area. However, there is no scientific data currently available on the effectiveness of dietary treatments or other such alternative treatments.

Coping with ADHD

You want to help your child learn coping skills that he will eventually apply himself without your prompting.

• Help your child to maintain order in his day by establishing clear routines. When he gets off track, remind him gently, "What's the first thing you need to do? What comes after that?"

• Be firm about his staying on track. "When you have brushed your teeth, then you may watch TV."

• Monitor his schedule. A child with ADHD is especially sensitive to being overloaded with too many activities. He needs to break up his activities into smaller chunks and focus on each one at a time.

• State directions clearly and simply. Avoid long explanations, however well-intentioned.

• Catch your child in good behaviour and comment on it frequently. Sometimes it's so easy to be overwhelmed by his inappropriate behaviour that that's all you focus on.

• Catch your child paying attention, and give him positive feedback. Some children with ADHD don't really understand what "paying attention" means. They need clear feedback when they are displaying appropriate skills.

• Talk to your child about his experience with ADHD. Tell him that the condition is not his fault. It's just a part of his life and he needs to learn coping strategies to deal with it. Let him know that he can achieve as well as his unaffected peers, but that it might take him a little longer. Many adults with ADHD have learned to manage their condition and are creative and productive.