WE CARE EVERYWHERE! Understanding the Strengths and Challenges that Come with Attention Differences

Everyone loses their focus or attention and feels the need to move around from time to time!! There are many things that can affect attention and focus such as…. being hungry not getting enough sleep day dreaming worrying about something thinking about upcoming fun events like parties and holidays However, for some people this happens frequently and can be related to a medical condition called ADHD.

What is ADHD? Stands for attention- deficit/hyperactivity disorder People with this condition may have trouble paying attention, need to move around a lot (hyperactivity), and/or have difficulty stopping to think before they act (impulsivity). Both kids and adults can have ADHD

How does having ADHD affect a person? There may be some challenges: May be easily distracted May forget to do things or lose things frequently May have difficulty finishing work May have trouble listening to teachers, parents, or friends May get lost in thought instead of working

May be full of energy or always on the go May have trouble waiting their turn May blurt out answers May have trouble sitting still May need to move often

But it can also bring many strengths… Creative/artistic Imaginative Good at public speaking Have a great sense of humor Be a great story teller Passionate Outgoing Quick thinking Good helpers Energetic and fun Able to do several things at once

How can we be a good friend to someone who has attention or impulsivity challenges? Be patient! Encourage your friend to keep trying. Try not to distract your friends during work time. Save your comments and stories for a good time. Remember that Jim Jelinski talked about the importance of building an atmosphere of caring and supporting each other. BE AN UPSTANDER! Always remember to lend a helping hand to our fellow students and to stop any student who is teasing, being disrespectful, or bullying another student. REMEMBER: WE DON’T DO THAT HERE!

Famous and Successful People Did you figure out what the Famous and Successful people posted around the school all have in common?

Besides being famous and successful, they all have ADHD.

Jamie Oliver, Chef and TV show host Ty Pennington Carpenter and TV show host Howie Mandell Actor, Comedian, TV show host Adam Levine Lead Singer in a Top 40 Band

Cammi Granato Captain of the U.S. Women’s Ice Hockey Team Jim Carrey Comedian, Actor Michael Phelps Olympic Gold Medal Winning Swimmer Michael Jordan Basketball Player and Team Owner Justin Timberlake Musician, Actor Thomas Edison Inventor, Businessman

MORE QUESTIONS??? If you have more questions about ADHD, attention, impulsivity, or being a good friend, talk to your teacher, parents, Mrs. Boldt, Mrs. Wexler, Dr. R. and/or Mrs. Schweiger. Thank you for caring