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DIAGNOSIS ADD ADHD --- NOW WHAT? 

PARENTS HAVE CHOICES

     1. Get informed about ADD/ADHD.

Go to the library, join a support group, check out the INTERNET, talk to other parents, talk to teachers -- principals and special education directors. There are books, tapes, videos, and such to help you become informed.

      2. Follow doctor’s advice.

Many parents follow through on physician’s advice concerning medication. In my experience, many do not follow through on suggestions for counseling. Some students with Attention Deficit Disorder do improve with medication but counseling can be extremely beneficial to the entire family. Having an ADDer in a family can upset the family dynamics. Often parents and siblings are in need of specific strategies to help them create a more enjoyable home life. There are things you can do to reduce the family stress. Consider counseling.

     3. Be sure your child is healthy.

Your physician most likely gave your child a complete physical. If not, request it. In my study of ADD/ADHD, I have come across studies stating that some ADDers suffer from unrecognized medical problems. Not all physicians check for nutritional deficiencies. Many of these students suffer from allergies, frequent upper respiratory infections, zinc and/or vitamin C deficiencies, low thyroid problems, asthma, yeast problems, and so on.

CAUTION: There are numerous nutritional supplements, diets and other “cures” claimed. Check with your doctor before trying any such “cure”. Check for scientific, published studies -- peer reviewed -- of any non-standard product you are considering giving your child. There are nutritional supplements and other non-standard therapies reported to assist with Attention Deficit Disorder symptoms. Some are total rip offs and others may actually be helpful. You need to heed the saying -- “Buyer Beware.”


     4. Read to your child

This is probably the number one suggestion for parents from elementary teachers. It’s exceptional advice. Continue reading to them as long as possible. Pick books a bit above the student’s reading level to expand vocabulary. Check with a librarian about award winning books and strive to read those for sure. You can order books ONLINE from Barnes & Noble. BookChoices

5. Give your child a massage as often as possible. Well, at least a back rub.

Massage might be therapeutic for stress. Some ADD children are under stress. Having a parent rub your back each night or morning might instill beneficial feelings for the child. Try it!

     6. Smile & Laugh

Give your child a smile as often as you can. It’s a free gift that will make you both feel terrific. Studies say it actually enhances necessary chemicals in a person’s brain when they feel “good”.

                  Laugh with your child often!

    7. Have scheduled family meetings -- weekly is best.

There are numerous models for these meetings. The important thing is to DO IT. During these meetings, families can discuss and make decisions about chores, vacation plans, upcoming events, and so on. All family members should participate. Playing a game chosen by different family members at the conclusion of the meeting adds fun. Set up ground rules for discussions to avoid conflicts.

 8. Consider some of the non-standard therapies.

Visual therapy, biofeedback, herbal therapy, nutritional therapy, self-hypnosis, yoga, Tai Chi, Chinese medicine, acupuncture, cranial manipulation, chiropractic manipulation. Who knows, maybe one will help your child. Know your choices!

    9. SMILE

Read my section on hints for para educators. Choices for Paras 

10. Try out strategies on this site.

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