ADHD in ChildrenADHD in children - what does it look like and how can we help them succeed in the classroom? One of the first steps is knowing the difference between ADD and ADHD. ADHD is an acronym that stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. ADD is an acronym that stands for Attention Deficit Disorder. ADHD symptoms vary, but primary features of ADHD in children are inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD in the classroom is often referred to as ADD with the hyperactivity component.
The most often seen type of ADHD in children is Combined. These students will show symptoms of all three characteristics in the classroom. What Causes ADHDAD/HD is a neurologically based disorder that affects around 8% of our students (latest CDC research on ADHD statistics).It is likely related to differences in the function of some areas of the brain that regulate activity and attention. The exact cause is not known, but genetics does play a role. If I have a conference with a parent and it is shared that he or she has ADHD, that is a good indicator as to what might be going on. Cigarettes, alcohol or other drugs during pregnancy may increase the risk for attention disorders in children as well. Students who were "crack babies," exposed to marijuana prenatally or were diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome will likely show some degree of it. There are many things that can be done to help a child manage impulse-control and behavioral issues. The U.S. National Institutes of Health have found that this type of diet modification actually helps only about 5% of children already diagnosed with AD/HD, and they are usually ones who have pre-existing food allergies. Diagnosing ADHD in ChildrenThe chemistry of the human brain undergoes constant change, and people with ADD/ADHD will express different degrees of intensity of their symptoms. This could be from day to day or even at different times of the day.Teachers notice signs of ADHD in the classroom and will take note of how it effects a student's social, behavioral and emotional interactions along with how it may impact academics. Teachers notice ADHD signs sometimes before parents do, as the structure of school tends to demand excellence in the particular areas where students with add characteristics do poorly. These children may require a behavior intervention plan. AD/HD is a difficult diagnosis for doctors to make. Often a teacher will make observations about negative behaviors at school. Parents and educators will fill out a BASC (Behavior Assessment for Children) or a similar form. Then the school psychologist will come in for a behavioral observation. All of the information is taken by the parents to the doctor if they choose to. A careful developmental history will also be used by the doctor. General patterns of behaviors must be established, and the clinician will have to rule out other possible causes for these behavior patterns, such as social and environmental stressors or other medical problems. Signs and symptoms of ADHD in children often show up in school because demands are made for persistent effort. At home, behaviors may not seem to be expressed as much because fewer task demands are being made. Return to Top: ADHD in Children About Advertising Privacy Policy How to Make a Website
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