All Things ADHD

What is ADHD?

ADHD is short for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that often begins in childhood and can continue into adulthood. There are three primary types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, and combined presentation.

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD

The signs and symptoms of ADHD can vary, but they generally fall into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Inattention

• Difficulty keeping attention in tasks or play
• Frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities
• Often seems not to listen when spoken to directly
• Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• Avoidance of tasks that require focus
• Frequently losing or misplacing items necessary for tasks
• Easily distracted
• Forgetfulness in daily activities

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

• Fidgeting or tapping hands and feet
• Inability to stay seated in situations where it is expected
• Running or climbing in inappropriate situations
• Inability to play or engage in activities quietly
• Excessive talking
• Interrupting or intruding on others’ conversations or games
• Difficulty waiting for their turn

How to Help Kids Manage ADHD

Managing ADHD looks different for everyone. It’s important to note that just because two kids have ADHD does not mean managing ADHD will be the same for both. Here are some tips and resources for parents:

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy can help children develop coping strategies and improve their behavior through positive reinforcement and structured routines. It is typically offered in classrooms as an added service to a child’s IEP or 504 Plan.

Medication

Hearing the word medication can be seen as a threat to some parents. I know that my husband and I were so against medication at first, mainly because we were in denial but also because of the label and stigma behind it. Once we put our feelings aside and focused on the betterment of our son and his academics, having him take medication was a no-brainer. Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Working closely with a healthcare provider is essential to find the proper medication and dosage.

Educational Support

If this still needs to be implemented, you should work with teachers and school counselors to create an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan that accommodates the child’s learning needs.

Routine and Structure

Routine and Structure are essential for kids with ADHD. Establishing a consistent daily routine can help children with ADHD feel more secure and less overwhelmed. It’s recommended that you break tasks into smaller, manageable steps. I would say always have a backup plan for days when routine and structure are unfeasible.

Positive Reinforcement

Use praise and rewards to reinforce positive behaviors. Focus on specific behaviors you want to encourage and tailor the rewards to your child’s interests.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity can help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and improve concentration. Putting my son in sports year-round helped tremendously. Football and basketball allowed him to release his hyperactivity, which helped him rely less on medication.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Teaching children mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help them manage stress and improve their focus. Counting to ten and breathing exercises are a few examples.

Resources for Parents

• CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
  • Website: www.chadd.org
  • Offers support groups, educational resources, and information on ADHD.
• The National Resource Center on ADHD
  • Website: www.help4adhd.org
  • Provides comprehensive information on ADHD, including treatment options and educational strategies.
• Understood.org
  • Website: www.understood.org
  • A resource for parents of children with learning and attention issues, offering practical advice and tools.
• Books
  • “Taking Charge of ADHD” by Dr. Russell Barkley
  • “The ADHD Parenting Handbook” by Colleen Alexander-Roberts
  • “ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to (Mostly) Thriving with ADHD” by Penn and Kim Holderness
  • “The Survival Guide for Kids with ADHD” by John F. Taylor, Ph.D.
  • “It’s Hard to be a Verb: A Picture Book to Help Kids with ADHD” by Julia Cook

About the Author

Mary Monrose

Mary Monrose is a Navy Spouse of over 15 years. She and her husband share three children: DJ, Amirah, and Felix. Mary and her family currently reside in Virginia. Mary is the Policy Officer for Partners in PROMISE and their podcast host for Mission PROMISE: Navigating Special Education for Military Families. She also has a podcast called Shine Sis, where she and her co-host empower military spouses and like-minded women to find their purpose in life. Mary holds a Master of Arts in Law, a Bachelor’s in Justice Administration, and an Associate in Paralegal Studies. She is a passionate advocate who enjoys helping others to amplify their voices.

Mary can be reached at mary@partnersinpromise.org and LinkedIn.