A.D.H.D. stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. (Also known as Hyperkinetic Disorder)
What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is generally considered to be a neurobiological disorder. Researchers believe that the symptoms of ADHD are caused by chemicals in the brain not working properly.
It is characterized by the inability to sustain focused attention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
What are the signs and symptoms of ADHD?
(This information is for a guide only, every child with ADHD will display their own individual behaviour pattern)
HYPERACTIVITY
Always on the go, has difficulty sitting still, often fidgets.
Has difficulty waiting turns, has difficulties playing quietly.
Often talks excessively.
Has difficulty remaining seated in a classroom situation or meal times.
Easily distracted, poor short- term memory, forgets instructions.
IMPULSIVENESS
Acts without thinking.
Interrupts others.
Shouts out answers in the classroom.
INATTENTION
Has difficulty sustaining attention.
Is easily distracted.
Finds it hard to follow tasks through, such as homework.
Has difficulties following instructions.
Often loses things needed for tasks such as homework and PE.
SOCIAL SKILLS
Often has difficulty playing with others.
Has difficulty making and maintaining friendships.
Often cheats.
Often butts into games, activities and conversations.
Often breaches rules.
Have difficulties with discipline.
Any of these symptoms must be present for a period of six months or more and must be present in two or more settings, e.g. home and School.
What should I do if I suspect my child had ADHD?
Speak to your Health Visitor or Doctor and ask if they would support you in a referral to a specialist.
Where else can I get help?
There is support and information out there but often it is hard to find. We started this website to help find that information for other parents.
We hope to have information soon on our website about diet, education etc but it you are looking for something more specific and you cant find it here then please email us.
We welcome your questions, advice and feedback on our website. This is a website designed by parents of Special Needs Children for other Parents and their Children.
REMEMBER WE ARE HERE TO HELP AND SUPPORT!
There are many useful websites out there – Please look on our links page.
If you are worried about diet you could ask your Health Visitor or you could ask your doctor for a referral if you believe certain foods are making your child Hyperactive.
You can also email us with any questions.
EDUCATION
In Norfolk we are very lucky to have Volunteers such as Norfolk Parent Partnership to help with any educational problems that your Special Needs child may have.
They are independent Parental Supporters who assist with The Educational Statement Process and can attend meetings with you for support and information.
Further details of Norfolk Parent Partnership can be found on our website, just click on More Info on the navigation bar on the left.
There are other support networks available, if you don’t live in Norfolk then ask your Local Education Office for details.
SUPPORT
There is support out there you just need to find what is best for you and your child. There are Local Support Groups in some areas.
If you are a Support Group and want to be listed on our website then please email us with details.
If you cant find a group in your area you could ask your Health Visitor, Doctor or school if they know of a group in your area. If you still can’t find a group and you are interested in setting up a group we would be pleased to offer any advice.
ASSOCIATED DISORDERS:
DYSPRAXIA
DYSLEXIA
TOURETTES SYNDROME
AUTISM
ASPERGERS SYNDROME
OPPOSITIONAL DEFIANT DISORDER
CONDUCT DISORDER
OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER
DISCLAIMER
This information is for a guide only. Every child with ADHD, will display their own individual behaviour pattern. If you are at all worried please consult with your Doctor or Health Visitor.
Do not be afraid to ask for a second opinion.
