| What A.D.D. Is A.D.D. is a neuroboilogical disorder that impairs a persons ability to focus, sit still, and control behavior. It usually makes its presence known before the age of 7. However, the problem can go undiagnosed for many years, especially when there is no hyperactivity involved. Doctors have not yet determined the exact causes of A.D.D. but extensive research has led them to believe that it is caused by a deficiency of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that help messages go from one brain cell to another. Types of A.D.D. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Type Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Combined Type How Common A.D.D. Is A.D.D. can be found in 5 out of 100 children in the United States, and in boys 3 times as much as girls. Symptoms of A.D.D.-Hyperactive-Impulsive Type Fidgets Trouble sitting still Runs about, climbs or is restless at inappropriate times Is noisy, hyper and talks too much Difficulty awaiting turn Often interrupts on others Blurts out answeres in class Symptoms of A.D.D.-Inattentive Type Fails to pay close attention to details, and makes careless mistakes Unable to stay focused on play or homework Doesn’t follow through on instructions in homework or chores Bad organizational skills Distracted easily Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities Often does not seem to listen Is forgetful Symptoms of A.D.D. Combined Type Any combination of symptoms from Hyperactive or Inatentive A.D.D. How To Figure Out If You Have A.D.D. If you notice that you have 6 or more of the above symptoms you should go to a trained Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Pediatrician, or Neurologist and ask to take the diagnostic tests for A.D.D. Other Complications Associated With A.D.D. Learning Disabilities TICS in 20% Gross and fine motor control delays in 50% Developmental delays Obsessive compulsive disorder Oppositional Defiant Disorder Asbergers, Autism Tips for Parents 1. Learn as much as you can about A.D.D. 2. Figure out what tasks are difficult for your child and help them to accomplish them 3. Give praise when your child does well 4. Be as clear as possible, and discipline wisely 5. Learn stratigies to manage your childs behavior 6. Talk to your doctor to decide what medication your child should take if any 7. Pay attention to your childs health 8. Talk to other parents with A.D.D. children 9. Meet with the childs teacher(s) 10. Believe in your child, love and accept them as they are 11. Look for positives 12. Do whatever it takes to help your child succeed Tips for Teachers 1. Learn all you can about A.D.D. I reccommend reading "Teaching Teens With A.D.D. and A.D.H.D." 2. Have student sit at front of class, near you 3. Post classroom rules and assignment due dates on the wall, or white board 4. Request that the student use a planner 5. Provide breaks 6. Give step by step instructions, break down long projects 7. Communicate weekly with parents with progress reports to catch any missing or late assignments 8. Have high expectations for the student 9. Try alternative ways of doing assignments 10. Be patient, positive, flexible, and understanding 11. Attend IEP meetings and follow students rights 12. Accept late work |
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