What’s Important to Know About ADHD?

Attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder is a topic of interest to parents and teachers. As a teacher, I have observed many students who were eventually diagnosed with ADHD and have filled out behavior scales before and after the initial diagnosis. I have talked with experts about this topic, have read professional literature and books on this topic and have taken courses to help me to better understand all aspects of this issue as it relates to teaching and learning. I still feel that there is more to learn. Teachers are not qualified to diagnose this disorder, but as a result of my varied experience I can share some facts that I feel are important to know about this topic.

• There are three types of problems that are classified under the category of ADHD: 1. predominantly inattentive, 2. predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and 3. combined
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that is characterized by a group of behaviors that are considered diagnostic criteria outlined in the The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV).
• It is important for parents and teachers to work together.
• It is not uncommon for a child with ADHD to have another problem that affects learning.
• Children with ADHD are all different.
• More boys than girls are diagnosed with ADHD.
• These children are typically inconsistent in their performance due to difficulty with making careless errors, staing on task, following directions, losing things, forgetting, not paying attention, etc.
• It is important to rule out allergies, hearing, vision problems and/or other possible medical conditions.
• ADHD does not go away.
• ADHD can affect others.
• There are a variety of ways to help a child with ADHD to be successful.
• Medication does not work for all children but it can make a significant difference with others.
• A seemingly subtle change due to medication can impact learning positively.

Informed parents are better advocates for their children. It’s helpful for parents to read and learn anything and everything they can find about this topic if they believe their child may have ADHD. There are a variety of reasons that children have trouble paying attention in school. A child can have problems with attention but not have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. A medical doctor or mental health specialist can make the diagnosis of this condition. A specialist will need to gather information from parents in order to make an accurate diagnosis.

If your child has ADHD or another learning challenge, you can find a tutor who has experience teaching children who are struggling with school.