Signs of ADD ADHD in Childhood
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Recognizing the signs of ADD ADHD in childhood allows for a child suffering from ADHD to receive treatment which can ultimately improve their quality of life.
ADD/ADHD in childhood affects a child's ability to stay focused, concentrate, follow direction, pay attention, and wait for their turn.
Missing the signs of ADD/ADHD in childhood can result in a child being mislabeled as a 'bad kid', and can have adverse affects on the child's self esteem as well as their academics.
Understanding ADD/ADHD in childhood can also arm parents with the proper tools to best parent a child with these challenges.
Education and support can assist an overwhelmed parent dealing with a child's challenging behaviour by making them feel that there is help out there and that they are not alone.
Recognizing the Symptoms of ADD ADD ADHD in Childhood
There are three behaviour categories within the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Spectrum which are;
- Hyperactivity
- Inattention and
- Impulsiveness
ADD/ADHD in childhood can result in a child exhibiting some or all of the following behaviours...
Hyperactivity:
The child often can't stay still, stay seated or play quietly. The child may be constantly on the move; running and
jumping, to the point where it is not age appropriate or socially acceptable.
Inattention:
The child does not appear to listen when spoken to, and is easily distracted from tasks. Tasks are often not completed
or are completed in a careless manner. The child has trouble keeping track of his things and keeping things
organized.
Impulsiveness:
The child acts without thinking and acts recklessly without considering the consequences. The child interrupts
conversations and other children's play, and speaks out when inappropriate.
Medical Treatment for ADD ADHD in Childhood
Because ADHD is a medical condition which causes a chemical imbalance in the child's brain, medication has been shown to affectively counteract that chemical imbalance and improve ADHD behaviour in children.
Prescribed medication, such as Ritalin, Focalin, Metadate and Dexedrine provides a stimulant for the child that allows the child to better focus and concentrate and also improves impulse control and lessens hyperactivity.
Psychological Treatment for ADD ADHD in Childhood
ADD/ADHD in childhood has been affectively treated with various psychological treatments.
Some of the more popular psychological treatments for ADD/ADHD in childhood include...
Social Skills Training; the child develops stronger social skills, such as taking turns, waiting for turns and sharing, which allows them to have more positive social connections.
Behaviour Modification; the child is rewarded for positive behaviour to encourage motivation for positive behaviour.
Special Education; the child's learning environment is organized in a structured manner with consistent routines.
Treating ADD/ADHD in childhood can allow a child to have more positive experiences and live happier more productive lives.
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