A free newsletter by BJ Madewell
DIAGNOSIS ADD ADHD Now What?
Published 10th, 20th & 30th of each month
PLEASE SEE DISCLAIMER AT THE END OF THIS DOCUMENT!
JUST THE BASICS
November 20, 2001
You may think, by the title of this newsletter that I'll be writing about teaching students letters and numbers. NOPE!
Just the Basics refers to what students MUST HAVE in order to be able to learn. This discussion is directed towards parents and teachers of all students -- even college students must have the following basics in order to be able to learn. I will be addressing the areas a parent or teacher can actually have some control over.
Children enter the world with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some are smart, some have intellectual challenges. Some have 20/20 vision, others need corrective lenses. Some things we have no control over. Children, however all need
THE BASICS
HEALTH ISSUES
A pristine NUTRITIONAL DIET is extremely important for all children, especially those with learning challenges.
They require a BREAKFAST with protein, not just sugary cereals,
LUNCH - again, it must be nutritious and not full of sugary tidbits. If you make your child's lunch, avoid packing soft drinks, please.
DINNER, be sure a daily minimum requirement of fruits and vegetables has been met over the entire day.
WATER - I've written about the importance of water before and won't belabor the subject again, just be sure your ADDer drinks a lot of it. Even slight dehydration may interfere with brain functions.
Be sure the child is free of allergies. If MEDICATION has been prescribed, be sure it is taken on the correct schedule. I know for a fact that some "busy" parents allow their young (I'm talking 2nd grade age here) ADDers to take their ADHD medication themselves each morning without parental supervision. That is frightening!
SLEEP is vitally important. It
appalls me to find out that many of my students (K-5) are allowed to stay up
past the evening news. Many have their own TV in their room and claim their
parents don't even know when they go to bed! Incredible!
EMOTIONAL ISSUES
If your doctor recommends family or individual therapy, DO IT !!! I have had many students over the years who have interpersonal relationship problems that school personnel are not adequately trained to deal with. If you doctor says your ADDer needs therapy, BELIEVE IT and follow through.
In order to function in school or at home, children need to feel SAFE and ACCEPTED.
If a child does not feel accepted by peers, family and teachers, it makes learning more difficult. There tends to be a feeling of fear that over-rides attempts to concentrate on lessons. Children must feel loved, respected, and accepted in order to be effective learners.
Additionally, they need to feel their parent(s) will always be there for them. It is scary for a child if his parent goes to jail, slips off in a drug or alcohol induced stupor or simply isn't reliable. Children need to trust the adults they see everyday. Do your best to KEEP YOUR PROMISES and don't make promises you know you can't keep.
ENVIRONMENTAL NEEDS
When I first started taking classes to become a teacher, one of the first
lectures I had was about the learning environment. We were told to be sure the TEMPERATURE
was conducive to learning. It shouldn't be too hot, cold, humid or dry.
Additionally, the lighting needs to be the right kind to avoid putting glare on
student's work. The child should also have a desk that is appropriate for
his/her size.
IT'S YOUR CHOICE
Be sure your ADDer has THE BASICS.
Provide a nutritious breakfast, check out the temperature and lighting your child deals with daily, do what your doctor recommends, KEEP YOUR PROMISES.
When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.
THE FREE SPELLING AIDE IS POSTED AT
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ADDchoices/files/Freespbk.doc
GET YOURSELF A COPY
DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only. Much of the information is from classes and workshops I've taken during my 26+ years of working with ADD & ADHD students – sprinkled with my own comments, thoughts and insights.
Some information has been acquired from the INTERNET. Be aware that not all information on the WWW is accurate. Use your own judgment.
This information is not intended to replace information from your doctor, therapist, lawyer, psychologist, nutritionist or psychiatrist. Consult your child's (or your own) doctor for additional input.
Editor: BJ Madewell
Wichita, KS area
316-733-9532
FAX not available
Email ADDchoices@aol.com or ADDchoices@yahoo.com
You may copy and print this newsletter for your own use and freely distribute it to others. You cannot sell this information. It is FREE.
Please include my email address & phone # on anything you give to others.
BJ Madewell
Please help .. click on the pig
