The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition defines attention deficit disorder as a subtype of the larger condition, attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder. What you might think of as ADD is the "predominantly inattentive type" of ADHD. While more than half the children diagnosed with ADHD received medication for their symptoms, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports from 2003, other strategies exist to help you and your child cope with ADD's challenges.
Behavioral Strategies
Lack of impulse control may be the most difficult symptom to change, according to ADDitude magazine. Structure and clear expectations help your child develop positive habits and patterns to combat impulsivity. Visual aids provide a concrete reminder of rules, expectations and schedules. Rewarding positive behavior motivates a child to work at maintaining appropriate behavior. While routines are important, anticipate the potential pitfalls in irregular activities. This can prevent negative behavior before it has a chance to occur.
Diet
Protein-rich meals can improve alertness. In addition, Dr. John Huxsahl, on MayoClinic.com, says that certain food colorings and additives can increase hyperactivity, so consider avoiding those in your child's diet. Allergy testing and elimination diets can identify food sensitivities that can also impact your child's focus and behavior. Although there has been vigorous debate about the link between sugar and hyperactivity, Dr. Huxsahl advises that you limit sweets in your child's diet.
Medication
If your child is a candidate for ADD medication, his doctor will most commonly prescribe a stimulant. This class of medications has had a calming effect on many children with ADD. If you choose to medicate your child, be aware of side effects like appetite loss, irritability, stomach problems or insomnia. While medication will not cure your child's ADD, it can help your child to manage his symptoms. A pediatric psychiatrist will advise you on the most appropriate prescription and will monitor any adjustments to it that your child may need.
Exercise
Regular exercise increases the production of certain neurotransmitters in your child's brain that are responsible for attention. A study published in Pediatric Research in May 2003 found that physical exercise in conjunction with the use of traditional ADD medications improved executive functioning in kids. This improvement makes it easier for a child to control her impulses.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Data and Statistics
- "ADDitude Magazine": School Behavior Tips: Impulse Control for ADHD Children; Fall 2009
- MayoClinic.com: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children; John E. Huxsahl, M.D.; Nov. 6, 2009
- "Pediatric Research": Catecholamine Response to Exercise in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Sharon B. Wigal, et. al.; May 2003; Volume 53; Issue 5
