Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, often referred to as ADHD, is not a new diagnosis but is one that is frequently misunderstood. ADHD is an "enduring pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity". Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is the term used for children with attentional problems who are not hyperactive or impulsive. Here are some thoughts about understanding and managing children with ADHD. Most of these thoughts and strategies will also be helpful for children with ADD.

• There is no scientific evidence to link food additives, colourings, allergies and/or sugar to ADHD.

• The causes of ADHD are unknown.

• Poor parenting does not cause ADHD.

• Children with ADHD can have problems paying attention, focusing, thinking before acting and/or keeping still.

• ADHD children are not "bad" children.

• Not all children with ADHD are hyperactive.

• A child with ADHD may be able to sustain attention to an activity of interest that doesn't demand an effort, such as watching TV or playing video games.

• There are strategies that can help a child with ADHD.

• There is no research to confirm the effectiveness of "natural remedies" and diets...

• ADHD is not diagnosed through the prescription of medication.

• Medication is used to help minimize the difficulties with attention and behaviour.

• There is no medication cure for ADHD.

• Most children tolerate the medication well.

• Children do not outgrow ADHD.

• Medication for ADHD needs to be monitored for effectiveness and side effects at least once a year.

• There is more than one medication used for ADHD symptoms.

Parents Can Help Children With ADHD:

A diagnosis of ADHD can feel like a heavy weight to carry. Here are some suggestions of what you can do to help your child and your family.

• Get Support. Talk with other parents who have a child with ADHD. Take a parenting support program.

• Face the Facts. Accept the idea that your child has difficulty paying attention, staying focused, thinking before acting and keeping still.

• Drop the Scolding and Nagging. They won't help your child or you. Act don't Yak! The more you talk, the less effective the management of behaviours.

• Encourage Physical Activity. Many children with ADHD benefit from healthy physical outlets for their energy.

• Be Encouraging. Children with ADHD need extra support and positives.

• Boost Your Child's Self-Esteem. Focus on your child's strengths. Encourage involvement in activities in which he or she can excel.

• Foster Responsibility. Establish a system to reward appropriate behaviours and consequence inappropriate ones.

• Respond Positively and Quickly. Follow desirable behaviours with positive consequences as quickly as possible. ADHD children may need a wider variety and more frequent changes in the reward system. Look for the positives!

• Provide Structure. Children with ADHD need structure, limits, family rules and goals. Routines for things like homework, and bedtime can make a big difference.

• Minimize Distractions. If your child works better in a quiet, uncluttered place, help find one.

• Prioritize. Learn to know which battles to fight and which not to fight. Develop your and your child's priorities for what accomplishments to strive.

• Discuss Change. Give your child plenty of warning before making changes in routine.

• Do not personalize the Child's Problems. Maintain a sense of humour. Your programs and strategies will not work every time with your child. Except lapses and don't waste energy blaming.

To parent a child with ADHD takes a lot of patience, understanding and love. Don't forget to take care of yourself, take a break, go for a walk, talk with a friend, find a way to relax and re-energize. Tap into supports and resources available in your family, at your child's school, at the Family Centre, or through your family doctor. There are many helpful books, videos and handouts for children with ADHD and their parents.

Resources Used:

• "The Putting on the Brakes Activity Book For Young People with ADHD" by Patricia O. Quinn & Judith M. Stern (1993).

• "An Information Guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder" presented by The Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Assessment Clinic Team at British Columbia's Children's Hospital (1999).

• "Helping Children with Attention Deficit Disorders" by The Parent Institute (1996).