Common Problems of Children with Attention Disorders

The following information was submitted by Carol Trillia, a Developmental Specialist.

Children with ADHD or ADD have many common traits

Most children with ADD or ADHD are very creative and very active, these children seem to be on the go all the time, they do not come with an  "on /off switch!" They will run rather than walk, they jump before looking, they want everything "right now" and have a hard time waiting for rewards or special events. They may be looking straight at you when you are talking to them, but after a few words their minds are wandering! They can still hear you, but they are focusing on other things… They have a very active mind! They ping pong from one thought to another!

They have a very hard time staying on task. They have a hard time regulating their emotions, they  tend to overreact , and when they are emotional they can't concentrate or stay on task! They are passionate about everything they do. They tend to have many tasks going at all times!

Children with ADHD and ADD tend to be physically sensitive, clothing can feel itch or tight, lighting can be too bright, food can have weird textures of flavors, etc.

These children can be hard to love, because they can be so emotional,  impulsive and disorganized, everything is magnified!

They are not out to make your life miserable, this is how their brains are wired!

They are passionate, loving and very intelligent, everything they do, they put their heart and soul into,  they are intense, perceptive, passionate, creative and very caring.

If you have a child that is ADHD or ADD wired;  you are blessed, your will not have a dull moment in your life!  

That been said, there are a few things you may want to do to help your child reach his/her maximum potential.

When giving directions, give one or two at a time; show  by example visual and lots of hands on , give the child time and a place to be creative and a place to move.

Do  a physical activity before you have to sit and concentrate. Make time for frequent breaks. Use a large exercise ball instead of a chair, or no chair at all.

Set clear parameters and expectations, be specific, if you are vague they will fill in the blanks!   

A child with ADD or ADHD will thrive when shown  compassion, understanding and love.  Enjoy the ride, it is going to be a wild one, full of adventure and fun, and very unpredictable!