By Terry Matlen, MSW

ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most common mental health disorders seen in childhood. Studies estimate that between 3-7 percent of all children have ADHD. That means approximately 2 million children in the USA alone, or one child in every classroom.

The main symptoms seen in this condition are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, however, it’s important to note that not all children with ADHD have hyperactivity. Many have the inattentive sub-type; these are the children who are often over-looked because they rarely present with behavioral problems. Rather, they are the dreamers who find it difficult to pay attention and who may instead, seem withdrawn or even depressed. It is far more likely that the hyperactive, impulsive children are identified in school for their acting out behaviors. Often times, teachers will report to the families that an evaluation for ADHD may be indicated.

If You Think Your Child Might Have ADHD

Have your pediatrician give your child a complete physical to rule out any possible medical condition that can mimic ADHD symptoms. Some children with chronic allergies, for example, simply cannot focus.

If your child is given a clean bill of health, discuss your concerns with your child’s teacher. Find out how your child is behaving in school. Some questions to ask would be:

• Is s/he completing homework assignments?
• Is s/he paying attention in class?
• Is s/he able to make friends easily?
• Does s/he have materials (books, paper, pencils) handy, or do they often get lost?
• Is s/he getting to class on time?

Keep in mind that many children with ADHD can do well in school and often excel in structured environments. It often isn’t until the later school years, often in middle school, that these children hit the wall and can no longer keep up. It is imperative that interventions be carried out to avoid failures.

Note your child’s behaviors at home. Does he seem more immature than other children his age? Does he have a hard time following directions? Sitting at the dinner table?

If you feel that your child exhibits many of the traits of ADHD, then it’s time to get evaluated. Schools should have psychologists on staff who can offer testing. However, many parents prefer to go for an outside evaluation. Some pediatricians feel capable of evaluating ADHD, but many child psychologists, psychiatrists and neurologists have special training to help decipher which behaviors could indeed be ADHD and which might be something else, such as depression, anxiety or a learning disability.

My Child Has ADHD: Now What?

If you find that your child does, indeed have ADHD, it’s important to educate yourself as much as possible. There are numerous books on the subject. Consulting with a mental health professional to help you with the many challenges ADHD can present, is invaluable. Finding support by attending local groups such as CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder) also are immensely helpful in not only learning more about ADHD, but also to connect with other families who are struggling.

Since the treatment of ADHD often includes parenting strategies, it is imperative that you work with a professional to help you learn new techniques to not only help manage your child’s behavior, but to also help him learn organizing strategies, homework management, social skills and more.

Treatment also often includes medication to help quiet the hyperactivity and impulsivity and/or improve attention. Many parents are reluctant to give their child medications, but stimulants (the most common and beneficial medication for ADHD) are safe when given as directed. Still, all parents have concerns. Here are some questions to ask your doctor to help you in making the decision as to whether medication is right for your child:

• What are the risks vs benefits?
• What side effects might I observe?
• Which medications will work best for my child?
• What options do I have if I don’t want to use medications for my child?
• How will I know if the medications are working?

Accommodations for ADHD

Since ADHD usually impedes a child’s performance in school, it is essential to work closely with teachers and staff so that your child can perform her best. Many people with ADHD qualify for accommodations. If the ADHD is getting in the way of academic or social success, you can request accommodations or  special education services.

To receive such services, you will need to have a letter from the professional who diagnosed your child. If the school psychologist administered the evaluation and found your child eligible for special help, discuss your concerns with her to see what sort of support your child needs and is entitled to in school.

Some ADHD accommodations often include:

• Having your child sit closer to the teacher
• Keeping your child away from distractions, such as the door leading to the hallway, windows, noisy classmates
• Having a note taker, especially if your child has poor handwriting skills
• Having assignments written on the blackboard
• Asking the teacher to check for homework when your child arrives at school to eliminate the possibility of his losing it
• Have teacher maintain frequent eye contact
• Break down assignments and instructions into smaller chunks
• Give your child extra time to take tests and complete assignments
• Allow for your child to work in a quieter area of the room, as needed
• Get help with organizing books, papers, backpack, desk, locker, etc

ADHD is a highly treatable condition and with the right support, most children will thrive and enjoy success personally, socially and academically.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect those of the National Association of Social Workers or its members.