Information About Attention Deficit Disorder for Parents, Caregivers. Presented by NEW GROWTH FAMILY CENTRE Inc. Aletha McArthur, OCT Special Education & Behaviour Specialist Founder of New Growth Family Centre Inc. Session 1

Is it real ? ADHD Symptoms vs Neurological Condition

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Facts About ADHD ADHD is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), and in some cases, are overly active. neurobehavioral

Is always a consideration with RAD (Reactive Attachment Disorder), Trauma History, Neglect, Abuse and FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). Family Issues.

Signs and Symptoms It is normal for children to have trouble focusing and behaving at one time or another. However, children with ADHD do not just grow out of these behaviors. The symptoms continue and can cause difficulty at school, at home, and in group settings. They actually get worse in school.

A child with ADHD might : daydream a lot have a hard time paying attention not seem to listen be easily distracted from schoolwork or play forget things be in constant motion or unable to stay seated squirm or fidget talk too much not be able to play quietly act and speak without thinking have trouble taking turns interrupt others

What does it look like ? Watch our Video: ADHD What does it look like ?

ADHD Symptoms: Inattention The main symptom of ADHD is the inability to pay attention. Kids may have trouble listening to a speaker, following directions, finishing tasks, or keeping track of personal items. They may daydream often and make careless mistakes. Children with ADHD tend to avoid activities that require sustained concentration or that they do not choose, or that is new to them

ADHD Symptoms: Hyperactivity Another component of ADHD is the inability to sit still. Children may run and climb on things constantly, even when indoors. When they are seated, they tend to squirm, fidget, or bounce. Some kids with ADHD talk excessively and find it difficult to play quietly and independently.

ADHD Symptoms: Impulsiveness A third symptom is impulsiveness – cutting in line, interrupting others, or blurting out answers before the question is asked. This aspect of ADHD makes it difficult for children to wait their turn or think before they act. They can also deny doing something that you actually witnessed them doing moments ago.

Causes of ADHD Children with ADHD have less activity in areas of the brain that control attention. They may also have imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. It's unclear what causes these irregularities, but ADHD runs in families, so many experts believe genetics play a role. Recent research has identified a gene indicating ADHD.

Environmental causes of ADHD Symptoms. Stress Disorganization Lack of sleep Lack of water Nutritional deficits Trauma Chemical additives Allergies Fear Unrecognized learning problems

How does it affect the family ?

ADHD's Impact on Daily Life Without treatment, ADHD can affect a child's development socially and academically. The inability to focus often leads to poor performance in school. Kids who interrupt or cut in line may have trouble making and keeping friends. These setbacks can lead to low self-esteem and risky behaviors. ADHD also increases the risk of childhood depression and anxiety disorders.

Why does it get worse at school ?

Requirements for Learning in groups. * Waiting * Not talking * Assigned tasks * Responding to adult direction * Changing activity * Listening and following directions * Coping with noise and distraction * Number of children in group

Will it go away ?

Will my child grow out of it ?

Children ** Learning skills ** Healthy habits ** Self awareness Input = Positive Outcomes

Adolescents/youth Input = Positive Outcomes ** Social skills ** Activities, “edgy” sports focus ** Communication skills ** Goals and Career choices ** Job Skills ** Money Management

Adults Input = Positive Outcomes ** Healthy ** Active “edgy” Experiences ** Balanced Life ** Fitting Career Choice

Where do I get information ?

Web Site for resources