Holmdel Township ADHD Testing
Empowered Learning Transformation Centers
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common behavior disorder of childhood, affecting between 5 and 9 percent of children. Children with ADHD can have trouble behaving or paying attention in school due to hyperactivity or impulsiveness (a tendency to act or speak without thinking). While ADHD can be inherited, doctors do not currently know what causes some children to have ADHD.
While all children experience times when they have trouble paying attention, children with ADHD have symptoms that do not get better without the assistance of coping techniques as they grow. A child with ADHD may:
· Get easily distracted
· Daydream often
· Have trouble paying attention
· Be forgetful
· Fidget frequently and have trouble staying seated
· Talk too much without thinking first
· Interrupt other people when they are speaking
· Be unable to take turns
Most children with ADHD will show these symptoms by age 7. Early identification and treatment can help your child perform better at school and behave better at home. Without treatment, children with ADHD are at increased risk of failing out of school, substance abuse, depression or accidental injuries.
Diagnosis of ADHD
Empowered Learning Transformation Centers perform comprehensive evaluations to determine if children have ADHD or other behavioral problems.
During the evaluation, your child's provider will take an extensive developmental history to determine any health problems, what is going on in your child’s life and the history of his or her behavior. Your child's provider will also observe your child and how he or she behaves and interacts during the appointment. As the caregiver you may be asked to fill out a brief questionnaire or checklist. If needed, your child may be brought back for an appointment to undergo psychological testing, speech testing and/or a medical examination. This testing, often in the form of activities or games, lets your child’s provider identify symptoms and make an accurate diagnosis.
After the evaluation, you will receive a detailed report about your child's specific condition as well as a list of community resources that can help your child. The report allows all caregivers and healthcare professionals who care for your child to apply consistent techniques to help him or her improve.
Treatments
Although there is no cure for ADHD, its symptoms can be treated and controlled. Specialists at Empowered Learning Transformation Centers provide specialized care for children with ADHD through the ADHD/Disruptive Behavior Disorders Program. Your child’s doctor or care team may suggest the following treatment options:
ADHD medicine. Children with ADHD may take stimulant medicines. These medicines can help your child focus more easily throughout the day. Your child may take stimulants through one pill a day, a few pills a day or as a patch. The doctor can help you find the right medicine for your child. Your child may need to try different medicines to see which one works best for them.
Behavior therapy. Behavior therapy (or behavior modification) uses consistent rules to teach kids new skills, like how to pay attention in class or play well with others. A professional can help you develop a behavior therapy program that meets your child's needs. Parents, teachers and other caregivers all need to participate in behavior therapy to help the child succeed.
· Parent training is often a component; sometime parent-child interaction therapy
· Social skills training may be part of this therapy
Special Education support. This is often necessary to support the success of children with ADHD in schools.
Occupational Therapy.
Your child's treatment plan may include one or more of these treatment options. The professionals will work closely with you and your child to find a personalized, effective treatment.
Key Points to Remember
· Children with ADHD may show symptoms such as impulsivity, fidgeting or inability to focus by age 7. These symptoms are long-lasting and do not improve, without the assistance of coping techniques, as children age.
· To diagnose ADHD, your child will need a comprehensive exam to rule out any other conditions.
· Stimulant medicines, behavior therapy, educational supports, or a combination of therapies can help improve your child's behavior and help him or her focus.
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