Treatment for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) needs to take into consideration potential variations of the disorder. In general, treatment for childhood ADHD usually includes a combination of medication and counseling, while also making adjustments in the child's school and home environments, reports the Mayo Clinic.
Basics
According to the Mayo Clinic, ADHD in children appears in the form of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Childhood ADHD can vary from one child to another. Some children only display symptoms related to inattention, while others are primarily hyperactive.
Getting Help
If your child is suspected of having ADHD, it is important to get him the help he needs. According to KidsHealth, a child should be evaluated by his doctor for ADHD. The doctor might send him for further evaluation by a psychologist, psychiatrist or neurologist to determine the presence of ADHD and weed out any other mental health problems. Once evaluated and diagnosed, treatment can begin; a doctor, school social worker or school counselor can provide a referral to a therapist who specializes in childhood ADHD.
Types of Therapy
According to the Mayo Clinic, treatment options for childhood ADHD include psychotherapy, behavior therapy, family therapy, social skills training, support groups and parenting skills training. With all these treatment options, the child will benefit the most when parents, teachers, therapists and doctors work together.
Involvement in Therapy
In behavior therapy, a child with ADHD may learn new ways of doing things, staying clam and remaining focused, according to KidsHealth. Behavior therapy also might include the use of charts or other reward systems in the home and at school to help increase the child's desired behaviors. Children may learn further ways to relax and stay calm in relaxation therapy. Kid'sHealth reports that relaxation therapy can teach a child with ADHD how to incorporate deep-breathing exercises and muscle-relaxing exercises into her daily life. Family therapy allows everyone in the family to voice issues, stresses and concerns associated with a child having ADHD, notes the Mayo Clinic. Support groups allow children, parents and siblings to have a network of support and a source of education.
Considerations
Generally, medications are part of the treatment for childhood ADHD. According to KidsHealth, children with ADHD usually take their medication once a day prior to school beginning, but there may be instances when a child has to visit the nurse during the school day to receive another dose. Various kinds of ADHD medications are used in treating children; these medications tend to affect the neurotransmitters in a child's brain. KidsHealth notes that it might take a trial period with different medications and dosages in order to find the one that works best for each child. When using medication as a part of treatment, pay attention to possible side effects, which can include irritability, headaches and stomach trouble, reports KidsHealth. Discuss side effects with the child's doctor.
