1. A ttention D eficit H yperactivity D isorder ADHD

2. A ttention D eficit H yperactivity D isorder involves hyperactivity, difficulty paying attention and a tendency to act impulsively.

3. OBJECTIVES  To describe a child with ADHD  To explain signs and symptoms  To discuss types of teaching tips

4. PREVALENCE  Begins in childhood and can affect all areas of child's life  Boys outnumber girls 3 to 1

5. Predominantly Inattentive (ADHD) SIGNS & SYMPTOMS  Doesn’t pay attention to details  Makes careless mistakes  Has trouble staying focused; is easily distracted  Appears not to listen when spoken to

6. Predominantly Inattentive (ADHD) SIGNS & SYMPTOMS (Continued)  Has difficulty remembering things and following instructions  Has trouble staying organized, planning ahead, and finishing projects  Gets bored with a task before it’s completed  Frequently loses or misplaces homework, books, toys, or other items

7. Is it really ADHD? Certain medical conditions, psychological disorders, and stressful life events can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.  Learning disabilities or problems with reading, writing, motor skills, or language.  Major life events or traumatic experiences (e.g. a recent move, death of a loved one, bullying, divorce).  Psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.  Behavioral disorders such as conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder.  Medical conditions, including thyroid problems, neurological conditions, epilepsy, and sleep disorders.

8. Positive Effects  Creativity  Flexibility  Enthusiasm and spontaneity  Energy and drive

9. Diagnostic and Criteria of Children with ADHD  Medical Evaluation  Early onset  Psychological Evaluation  Settings  Family  Teachers  Impact  Developmental Level

10. TIPS for Parents  Believe in and support your child  Keep things in perspective  Pay attention to the siblings  Communicate  Connect  Be consistent  Set a good example  Anticipate and avoid problems  Praise a good behavior  Pick your battles

11. TIPS for Teachers  Seating  Structure  Role Models  Peer tutoring  Cooperative learning  Transition  Clear and concise instructions  Simplicity  Tone  Positive guidance  Maintain eye contact

12. Common Medications Stimulants increase nervous system alertness by stimulating neurotransmitters in the brain. Stimulants help a child who has ADHD focus and reduces the child's excess fidgeting and hyperactivity. Common stimulants include:  Methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin)  Adderall  Dexedrine

13. Resources  ADHD: What Are the Signs? http://school.familyeducation.com  Helping Children with ADHD: http://www.chadd.org  ADHD and Children www.4-adhd.com