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!
|

No part of this article may be reproduced in full or in part
without express written permission of the publisher.
|
Medical Disclaimer:
All of the information
contained in the ADD A to Z web site and any associated electronic
publications, to include electronic books ("e-Books"), emails,
newsletters and links are provided for educational and entertainment
purposes ONLY. Neither the FDA, nor any other medical or government
authority has evaluated the information. Nor does the information
presented always represent the consensus of most physicians. The
information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any
disease, nor should it be used as a therapeutic modality or as a
substitute for your own physician's advice.
Click Here to
Read Full Medical Disclaimer |
Medical Disclaimer |
Terms Of Service |
Privacy Notice |
Sitemap
Top of Page
|