The Effects of ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is considered by researchers to be a neuro-behavioral developmental disorder that is primarily found in children, but also affects adults as well. Due to the symptoms of ADHD (symptoms can range from lack of concentration, poor memory retention, distractedness and impulsivity), children affected by this issue often have to make readjustments in their lifestyle in order to work and play with other people.

Meeting the Needs of ADHD

Due to the nature of the disorder, common behavioral symptoms associated with ADHD include frustration, unacceptable and disruptive behaviors, negligence in responsibilities, social awkwardness, the inability to follow directions, and tantrums. Most children recognize that something is different about them from other children, even when they aren’t aware of what their condition is. This negative assumption that they are a “problem” child keeps them from becoming more involved in their classmates and friends” activities. While most kids are treated for ADHD during childhood, others do not discover that they have the disorder until they reach adulthood.

Taking Steps

It is important to recognize and take the steps necessary in order to start modifying a child’s behavior to begin helping them. Given the right treatment and medication, a child’s brain will allow for a greater attention span and the ability to focus more. While it varies from subject to subject, results in their performance can improve within a week’s time. In addition, behavioral therapy can provide even more effective results.

One of the most successful means to dealing with ADHD is to provide activities that provide focus and a feeling of interaction with positive results.

Activities for ADHD Children

While some games and activities are not ideal for a child with ADHD (such as games with long waiting periods), there are activities that allow for an ADHD child’s sense of novelty and need for immersion. Fun activities include: Martial arts, joining the Scouts, sports activities, acting or drama clubs, building (models, carving, wood working or mechanical), swimming, and art or music classes. Each of these activities allows for physical effort and concentration, provides mental involvement and self-control, or simply allows the child to express themselves in a creative manner. The feeling of reward in accomplishing something, or the recognition of a positive task allows the child to see what behavior is acceptable, and learn how to work for it.

Any kind of task that doesn’t allow for social interaction, concentration, or physical activity is generally not recommended for an ADHD child. One of the biggest culprits is the excessive watching of television, which provides a non-active and isolated atmosphere.

Continuing Growth

While ADHD may force your child to approach seemingly everyday tasks differently, that does not mean that they have to be left out of involvement with their peers. The biggest factor of overcoming the effects of ADHD is not simply trying to repress it, but working within the boundaries that it provides.

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http://parentcenter.babycenter.com/0_best-and-worst-after-school-activities-for-children-with-adh_67358.pc
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=50356