HYPERACTIVE

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood behavioural disorder.
What are the sympoms of ADHD?
Children who have ADHD may know what to do but they are not always able to complete their task since they are unable to concentrate. ADHD is not related to intellectual deficits. In fact, children with ADHD usually have average or about average intelligence. The hyperactive child is not naughty, he is basically overly active since he cannot sit still.

Children suffering from ADHD may have the following characteristics :

a.	Inability to pay attention to details.
b.	Forgetfulness in daily activities.
c.	Being overly talkative, demanding and emotional with frequent outbursts of crying and screaming.
d.	Inability to follow simple instructions.
e.	Apparent listening problems.
f.	Tendency to lose things, break toys.
g.	Tendency to behave recklessly, without thinking of the consequences.
h.	Fidgeting or squirming.
i.	Difficulty waiting for their turn.
j.	Problems of organizing tasks and activities.

Causes of ADHD

There are many theories on the causes of ADHD.

Immaturity : Slower development of impulse control, emotional control and motor co-ordination is common among children with ADHD.

Genetics : ADHD has logical origins that are not yet clearly defined. Researchers have found a number of possible genetic links. Studies show that smoking during pregnancy gives rise to a high possibility of ADHD in your child. Scientists have found out that about 5 to 10 % of certain areas of the brain of a child with ADHD is smaller in size and activity, as compared to normal children.

Gender : ADHD is 4 to 7 times more common in boys than in girls. Boys mature slower than girls.

Treating ADHD

a. Medical Treatment : ADHD is often treated with medication. Medication should be taken under the supervision of a doctor, as each child reacts differently to the medication.
b. Diet : Take charge of your child's diet. Removing sugar and additives from a hyperactive child's diet can make a big difference in his behaviour.
c. Stick to a schedule : Emphasize a routine, schedule meals, naps, outings, snacks, bath time, etc. By doing so you will slow down your child's frantic pace.
d. Praise quiet play : If your child spends a few minutes looking at a book or playing with a puzzle, give him the applause he deserves.
e. Avoid using physical punishment : Discipline should be consistent and firm, but loving.
f. Love your child as he is : Do not condemn him. Instead be very positive. Help your child to channel his excess energy constructively.