Childhood Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), currently referred to as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is a chronic condition that can be present into adulthood, reports the MayoClinic.com. ADHD can cause lifelong stress and problem behaviors for the individual and those around him. According to the MayoClinic.com, ADHD affects the lives of millions of children and can negatively impact self-esteem, relationships and performance in school.
Basics
ADHD is a disorder that usually becomes apparent in early childhood. This disorder has three primary characteristics including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, reports HelpGuide.org. Your child must display signs of ADHD in a variety of situations, such as at home and school, in order for her to receive the diagnosis.
Signs and Symptoms
According to HelpGuide.org, the two variations of ADHD, inattention and hyperactivity, display very different symptoms. If your child has the inattentive type of ADHD, he may overlook details and make careless mistakes, be unable to focus, become easily distracted, have trouble listening, have difficulty following instructions, be unorganized, forget to complete assignments, and be constantly loosing things such as homework or textbooks. If your child displays hyperactive ADHD, he may constantly fidget, be unable to stay seated for long, and may always be on the move, possibly running or climbing at inappropriate times. He may also talk excessively.
Causes
The MayoClinic.com reports that research has identified some factors that may contribute to the development of ADHD in children that include an altered brain function and structure, family history of ADHD, maternal smoking or drug use during the pregnancy, and exposure to environmental toxins both during pregnancy and childhood.
Parents
Dealing with a child who has ADHD can be trying on the whole family, but there are steps you can take, as a parent, to help manage your child's ADHD. According to the MayoClinic.com, these steps can include bringing the structure of a calm and organized life into your child's daily routine to help him feel safe, incorporating discipline that uses positive reinforcement, and rewards good behavior, while being firm and consistent at punishing unwanted behavior. You can role model good and positive behavior by remaining calm and in control, and taking breaks from your child to allow yourself time to renew and recharge.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD includes behavioral therapy, education and training for parents, social support, changes and support at school, and changes to the child's environment in order to minimize distractions, reports HelpGuide.org. According to the MayoClinic.com, you will see the best results when your child's treatment plan is based on a team of people working together. These people include yourself, your child's teachers, therapist and physician. Also, medication has been show to be effective in helping children with ADHD, but should be used in conjunction with therapy, and not as the sole form of treatment, reports the HelpGuide.org.
