–
Children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) face more challenges — understanding spoken language, reading and writing fluently, and interpreting non-verbal cues in social settings — at an earlier age than their peers. Many children with ADHD find it hard to focus, pay attention, and interact with peers in school and extracurricular settings. All of this adds up.
What’s more, ADHD in children often comes with comorbidities and learning disabilities that may affect behaviors and academics in early elementary school. As demands increase in late elementary and middle school, impairments in executive functioning make writing reports or working on group projects more difficult for youth with ADHD.
Children with ADHD also often struggle to manage impulsivity and their emotions, making it harder to maintain friendships. At the same time, comorbid oppositional defiant disorder may damage a child’s relationship with their parents.
Parents should make sure that their child is evaluated by a clinician who is experienced in diagnosing and treating not only ADHD but also comorbid conditions like learning disabilities and anxiety. Recognizing and managing “challenges” early will help children with ADHD successfully start their academic careers — with or without ADHD medication. Enabling a child with ADHD to feel smart and engage in healthy peer relationships will lead to a successful school and social life, and encourage a smoother transition to high school.
In this webinar, you will learn:
Webinar replays include:
Navigating the Life Stages of ADHD: Key Concerns in Diagnosing and Treating Children