Attention Deficit Disorder
The Beautiful Difference!
My platform is Attention Deficit Disorder-The Beautiful Difference! My connection and passion for this platform is very personal for me. My three children, my grandchildren and myself, all live with the learning disability Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD). There are many people who do not realize that ADD is in fact, a learning disability. The neurotransmitters in the brain of a person with ADD do not function normally. It is very hard to pay attention, or stay on task. Simple things such as sitting still to watch a movie or concentrating on homework are a daily challenge for these children.
However, thanks to organizations such as LDA of Minnesota and the World Federation of ADHD, there is hope. They support children and families affected by ADD and help them to live normal productive and successful lives. Their diagnostic testing resources help ensure our children have access to resources they are entitled to in order to secure a successful future.
Signs/Symptoms and Causes of ADD/ADHD
Is it hard for your child to sit still? Does your child act without thinking first? Does your child start but not finish things? If so, your child may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD for short.) Nearly everyone shows some of these behaviors at times, but ADD lasts more than 6 months and causes problems in school, at home and in social situations.
ADHD is more common in boys than girls, and it affects 3-5 percent or 5.2 Million children nationally each year. This number has increased by 25% in the last decade according to a recent research study.
The principal characteristics of ADHD are
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
Frequently Asked Questions about ADHD
Q. How does ADHD affect a child’s schooling?
A. Children with ADHD are at increased risk for lower academic performance and social problems (including peer problems and conflicts with the teacher). They have a greater chance of dropping out of school. Many receive lower academic scores due to problems with attention span, hyperactivity and impulsivity. A very typical problem is displayed by children who do not turn in schoolwork to the teacher even though it has been completed. Many have “chaotic” book bags. Entry into middle school is especially challenging for children with ADHD because they are now expected to be able to switch from class to class.
Q. What could and should my child’s school be doing to help?
A. Children with ADHD may qualify for special education services or accommodations under either of two federal laws: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part B [IDEA] or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These are known as the 504 Plan or the IEP Plan and they are specific to each child's needs to assist with their education.
Q. If I request an evaluation, doesn't the school have to do it?
A, No. The school is only obligated to evaluate a child if they feel there is a substantial impact on the child's learning or behavior. If the school chooses not to evaluate, then they must supply a written response explaining why they refused to evaluate.
Q. My child is very bright. He can’t have ADHD, too, can he?
A. Yes he can. Intelligence doesn’t have anything to do with ADHD. People with all levels of intelligence may have ADHD.
A. Children with ADHD are at increased risk for lower academic performance and social problems (including peer problems and conflicts with the teacher). They have a greater chance of dropping out of school. Many receive lower academic scores due to problems with attention span, hyperactivity and impulsivity. A very typical problem is displayed by children who do not turn in schoolwork to the teacher even though it has been completed. Many have “chaotic” book bags. Entry into middle school is especially challenging for children with ADHD because they are now expected to be able to switch from class to class.
Q. What could and should my child’s school be doing to help?
A. Children with ADHD may qualify for special education services or accommodations under either of two federal laws: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part B [IDEA] or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These are known as the 504 Plan or the IEP Plan and they are specific to each child's needs to assist with their education.
Q. If I request an evaluation, doesn't the school have to do it?
A, No. The school is only obligated to evaluate a child if they feel there is a substantial impact on the child's learning or behavior. If the school chooses not to evaluate, then they must supply a written response explaining why they refused to evaluate.
Q. My child is very bright. He can’t have ADHD, too, can he?
A. Yes he can. Intelligence doesn’t have anything to do with ADHD. People with all levels of intelligence may have ADHD.