Helping Children With ADHD: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents and Educators

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 5% of school-aged children. It is characterized by difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Helping Children with ADHD: A CBT Guide for Practitioners, Parents and Teachers

by Frances Schultz

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6282 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	294 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Children with ADHD may have trouble:

• Paying attention in class or at home
• Sitting still for long periods of time
• Controlling their impulses
• Getting along with others
• Learning at the same pace as their peers

What causes ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for ADHD include:

• Having a family history of ADHD
• Being born prematurely or with a low birth weight
• Having exposure to lead or other toxins
• Experiencing trauma or abuse

How is ADHD diagnosed?

ADHD is diagnosed based on a clinical evaluation by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. The evaluation will typically include a review of the child's symptoms, a physical examination, and a discussion with the child and their parents.

There is no single test that can diagnose ADHD. However, the following tests may be used to help rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms:

• Blood tests
• Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan
• Electroencephalography (EEG)

How is ADHD treated?

There is no cure for ADHD, but it can be managed with medication, therapy, and education. The best treatment plan for a child will vary depending on their individual needs.

Medication

Medication can help to improve attention and control hyperactivity and impulsivity. The most common types of medication used to treat ADHD are stimulants, such as Ritalin and Adderall. Other types of medication that may be used include antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.

Medication can be an effective treatment for ADHD, but it is important to note that it can also have side effects. Some of the most common side effects of ADHD medication include:

• Loss of appetite
• Sleep problems
• Stomach pain
• Headaches
• Mood swings

Therapy

Therapy can help children with ADHD to learn how to manage their symptoms and improve their behavior. There are different types of therapy that may be helpful for children with ADHD, including:

• Behavioral therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Parent training
• Social skills training

Education

Education is an important part of managing ADHD. Children with ADHD need to learn about their condition and how to manage their symptoms. They also need to learn about the different treatments available for ADHD and how to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Parents and educators can play a vital role in helping children with ADHD to succeed. By working together, they can create a supportive environment that helps children with ADHD to reach their full potential.

Additional resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: ADHD
• National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: ADHD
• Child Mind Institute: ADHD
• ADDitude Magazine
• Understood

Helping Children with ADHD: A CBT Guide for Practitioners, Parents and Teachers

by Frances Schultz

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6282 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	294 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE