Attention Deficit Disorder A to Z

ADD A to Z:
Your Guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
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What to Do if I Think My Child has ADHD

By Dawn M. Olsen
 

Today, many parents are worried about their children, wanting the best in every aspect of his or her life. For this reason, hearing things such as “What to do if I think my child has ADHD” are common. If you have noticed that your child struggles in certain areas, having a higher level of hyperactivity or anxiety than other children, that he or she has trouble concentrating in school or completing homework and other tasks, chances are you should have your child tested. Just remember, while ADHD is not something any parent wants for their child, it is also not a death sentence!

Okay, what to do if I think my child has ADHD is the subject of this article and as you will soon discover, you have viable options and solutions but it takes work on the child’s part, the parent’s part, and the teacher’s part. The first thing of course is having your child tested to make sure ADHD is the actual problem. ADHD, otherwise known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a malfunction of the brain that affects as much as 5% of all school age children, boys more than girls. For the child, ADHD creates a world of the unknown, few friendships, and one frustration after another while for the parent, ADHD creates concern over protecting the child and making sure he or she has a fair chance at life.

Therefore, if you suspect that something is going on, you are constantly getting reports that your child cannot focus or sit still in class, then when it comes to what to do if I think my child has ADHD is that you need to find a qualified and reputable doctor. This doctor will provide you and your child with a firm diagnosis so you can move to the next step of the process. After the diagnosis is made, together, the right type of medication can be prescribed, as well as any other type of therapy such as behavioral therapy. Sometimes, when both the parent and the child have an answer to the question of “what to do if I think my child has ADHD”, they experience a huge stress reliever. The unknown always makes things worse so now knowing the “whys” allows for the beginning of recovery.

After talking to your doctor, it is imperative that you contact the school and set up a meeting with the teacher and/or counselor, without the child. This will give you an opportunity to discuss your child’s behavior but also solutions. Building a solid relationship with your child’s teacher is so important in your child’s progress. When asking, “What to do if I think my child has ADHD”, this step is one you cannot afford to overlook. Once the teacher understands that your child is dealing with this disorder, he or she can help provide the needed guidance, encouragement, support, and protection in the classroom.

For instance, the teacher may arrange for your son or daughter to sit toward the front of the class, gently and inconspicuously tap on the child’s desk to get attention when the mind begins to wander, work more one-on-one during assignments, and provide your child with extra time to complete work. Remember, the way your child will get through the challenges associated with ADHD is by having a solid team to lean on. This means stepping forward to become a voice for your child to let him or her know that a cheering section is standing firm to help!
 

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