Parents should use a system of rewards and consequences to help guide their child's behavior. It is important to learn to handle disruptive behaviors. Support groups can help you connect with others who have similar problems.

Other tips to help your child with ADHD include:

• Communicate regularly with the child's teacher.
• Keep a consistent daily schedule, including regular times for homework, meals, and outdoor activities. Make changes to the schedule in advance and not at the last moment.
• Limit distractions in the child's environment.
• Make sure the child gets a healthy, varied diet, with plenty of fiber and basic nutrients.
• Make sure the child gets enough sleep.
• Praise and reward good behavior.
• Provide clear and consistent rules for the child.

Alternative treatments for ADHD have become popular, including herbs, supplements, and chiropractic treatments. However, there is little or no solid evidence that these work.

ADHD is a long-term, chronic condition. If it is not treated appropriately, ADHD may lead to:

• Drug and alcohol abuse
• Failure in school
• Problems keeping a job
• Trouble with the law

About half of children with ADHD will continue to have troublesome symptoms of inattention or impulsivity as adults. However, adults are often more capable of controlling behavior and masking difficulties.

• Difficulties at home, school, and in relationships with peers
• Medication side effects
• Signs of depression

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Review Date: 04/11/2011
Reviewed By: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., Fred K. Berger, MD, Addiction and Forensic Psychiatrist, Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla, California.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)