Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), formerly called ADD, is one of the most common neurological childhood disorders according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Symptoms can continue through adolescence and adulthood and include difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior and hyperactivity. Approximately eight percent of children in the U.S. are diagnosed with ADHD, and more boys are affected with this disorder than girls.
Exercise
Exercise is a proven effective method of controlling ADHD symptoms. David Goodman, an assistant professor of psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, explains that exercise increases levels of two key brain chemicals---dopamine and norepinephrine---that help people focus. Cognitive brain function and focus is improved for one to three hours after exercise, meaning if children exercised multiple times a day, it could keep their brain at a steady level though out the day.
Dietary Changes
The Institute of Child Health in London found that dietary changes significantly improved ADHD symptoms. A similar study found 62 percent of children with ADHD improved with an elimination diet that removed sugar, milk, wheat, chocolate, soy and eggs from their diet. Diets lacking the proper amount of omega-3s may also result in ADHD symptoms. By correcting dietary deficiencies with supplements, symptoms may decrease.
Behavioral Management
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, behavior modification is the only medically approved and scientifically proven non-medical treatment for ADHD symptoms. Parents can help children by creating a plan to help cope with and change difficult and counterproductive ADHD symptoms. Some behavioral management techniques include implementing an organization system, learning how to accomplish long-term projects, establishing a routine and practicing appropriate social skills. Goodman says the goal of behavioral management is to empower a child with organizational skills that they can take into adult life.
