A Canadian study showed that 50% of cases where Ritalin was prescribed to treat ADD, the initial diagnosis was made by a parent. That is a dangerous trend. Parents who already have to deal with a full-time job and the stress there, doing the housekeeping and try to educate their children often feel overwhelmed. When a child then misbehaves or doesn't live up to the parents' academic expectations (and they can't make time to help the child with its homework), many then run to the doctor and ask for a prescription to help their child focus, or calm down.
However, many other parents want to avoid medication for their child and are more willing to pay close attention to their child's behaviour if they or the teachers suspect that the child has ADD.
Some symptoms can be normal for a certain child's behaviour or a normal part of his development. They don't necessary imply that he has ADD. Some symptoms apply for both ADD as well as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
A child with ADD:
- Has problems focusing on one task. He or she will start a task, sometimes with a lot of enthusiasm and then get bored with it quickly, moving on to another task and then another one. It is hard for them to complete a task, especially when it implies learning something new. Therefore, doing homework is a nightmare for them, But, the child has no problem focusing on something that interests him.
- Is forgetful when it comes to daily activities, such as chores, brushing their teeth, etc.
- Has a hard time waiting for its turn in games or sports activities.
- Can't seem to sit still, always fidgeting with his feet and hands and moving around in his chair.
- Has a hard time following instructions, another reason why homework is so difficult. This also makes it frustrating when it comes to learning a new game.
- Will yell out an answer before the teacher or parent has even finished asking the question.
- Will interrupt people's conversations. Now this has to happen frequently, even though he is constantly reminded not to do so. Interrupting can be normal for a child, up to a certain age.
- Doesn't listen or pay attention to things said.
- Is very easily distracted.
- Engages in dangerous activities without thinking about the consequences.
- May talk nonstop.
- Has difficulty playing quietly.
- Makes careless mistakes in his daily activities and homework.
- Can't seem to organize his tasks.
- Often loses things that he needs to do his homework, such as books or pencils.
- In some cases, a child will wet his bed past the age of five. Again, this symptom could imply other problems, such as a physical or psychological problem.
- When reading, the child will skip back and forth or go directly to the ending of the story.
- Is easily bored.
- Has to move around in order to think or solve a problem. This can be seen in adults who can't take a business call without pacing the room.
- Is often late (due to lack of organization).
- The bedroom will be a mess (and in adults, the desk), since cleaning bores him easily.
Needless to say, if you find a few symptoms on the list that describe your child's (or your partner's) behaviour, don't panic right away. Some things can be caused by other disorders or a just be a part of this person's personality.
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Phonics