Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD, Hyperactivity)

Attention Deficit Disorder
(ADD, Hyperactivity)
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What is it?
 Hyperactivity- a high level of excitement or activity in a child that causes
concern to the parents or caregivers
 Hyperactivity- emotional disturbances, abnormalities of brain function,
exaggeration of the child’s normal temperament
Signs and Symptoms:
 At least 8 of the following must be present for a child to have ADD (14 are
listed)
o Uncompleted Chores-shifts from one chore or game to another
without completing either
o Attention- to any chore or game is difficult
o Often Does Not- Listen, Interrupts others, play quietly.
o Often Does- Talk excessively, loose what is needed for a chore or
game, does not consider the consequences, seem restless, not sit
still, become distracted easily, have difficulty waiting his or her turn,
answer questions before the question is completed, have problems
following instructions
 A problem with concentration, sustained attention, and task persistence,
often impulsive and overactive, behaves poorly, poor communication skills.
Low frustration tolerance
Facts:
 2 Year Old- active and never still, normal for stage of development
 4 Year Old- high activity and noise level, normal for stage of development
 ADD Disorder- affects an estimated 5 to 10% of school aged children, 10
times more often in girls than boys, often noticed before age 4 and if not
then by age 7, about 20% have learning disabilities, about 60% have
problems with their tempers, about 90% have academic problems,
normally not outgrown
 ADD –is usually inherited, caused by abnormalities in the neurotransmitters
What can I do?
 See your Health Care Provider- for treatment and referral to a specialist