Besides having difficulty with completing schoolwork, young children with ADHD are more apt to have accidents involving bone fractures or other injuries requiring medical attention. Safety can be a constant concern for parents of young children with ADHD.
Some high energy and high interest activities can sustain attention for longer periods. Playing video games, cars or dolls can often be a source of enjoyment and can hold the interest of younger children. Playing outdoors is also something that can help to release extra energy and exercise has been found to help with focus.
Many children in early elementary school are still not diagnosed with ADHD and are too often considered to be lazy or “not working to their potential.” However, as more and more is learned about ADHD and both parents and teachers are educated in strategies to help children with ADHD, the chances of the child’s success increase.
Some of the ways parents can help young children at home:
Providing a calm place to allow a child to transition from school to home and from playing to completing homework.
Providing a structured, quiet environment to complete homework.
Helping the child to break down tasks, completing a few homework problems then taking a short break.
Working with the teacher to create a positive learning environment.
Using positive reward and behavioral management strategies.
Seeking medical attention if symptoms are interfering with a child’s ability to function at school.
Providing opportunities for structured social activities.
In addition to these strategies, medication is sometimes prescribed for young children. Adderall, Dexedrine and Dextrostat have been approved for children as young as 3 years of age. If symptoms of ADHD are interfering with your child’s ability to function at school, or at home, your doctor should be able to help determine if ADHD is present and if medication or other treatments may help.
Sources:
“What is ADHD?”, 2002, Jim Chandler, M.D., Attention Deficit Disorder Resources
“(ADD) ADHD at Different Ages”, Date Unknown, Author Unknown, Edge Foundation
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”, 2008, Aug, Kevin Leehey, M.D., LeeheyMD.com
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”, 2008, April 3, Author Unknown, National Institute of Mental Health
