ADHD Basics

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that becomes apparent in some children in the preschool and early school years. It is hard for these children to control their behavior and/or pay attention.

The principal characteristics of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Not everyone who is overly hyperactive, inattentive, or impulsive has ADHD.

Some parents see signs of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in their toddler long before the child enters school. 

There are various theories about what causes ADHD, but what is most important is not the cause but for parents to focus on strategies that best help their child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Although ADHD is not considered a learning difference, some 30-50% of children with ADHD also have co-occurring challenges like like dyslexia, depression, or anxiety. 

Every family wants to determine what treatment will be most effective for their child. This question needs to be answered by each family in consultation with their health care professional.

Medication can help the ADHD child in everyday life. He or she may be better able to control some of the behavior problems that have led to trouble with parents and siblings. But it takes time to undo the frustration, blame, and anger that may have gone on for so long. Both parents and children may need special help to develop techniques for managing the patterns of behavior.

You are your child’s best advocate. To be a good advocate for your child, learn as much as you can about ADHD and how it affects your child at home, in school, and in social situations.

Your child with ADHD has successfully navigated the early school years and is beginning his or her journey through middle school and high school. Although your child has been periodically evaluated through the years, this is a good time to have a complete re-evaluation of your child’s health.

Sometimes people are not diagnosed with ADHD until they are adults and the root of their own life-long challenges becomes clearer. From there, the newly diagnosed can take action.