A lack of attention

A big myth surrounds ADHD or in its full form – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – in that the condition is caused by parenting style, since an ADHD child can appear to be simply misbehaving.

So what are the causes? To be honest, they are still not fully known. Experts, however, suggest a range of possibilities such as genetic disposition – imbalance of creativity and detailed analytical skills, partial brain damage during gestation, a chemical imbalance of the brain or early exposure to lead, or excessive alcohol exposure whilst in the womb and some researchers believe diet or allergies may have an effect.

Key characteristics of ADHD are being inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive. Some children suffering from the disorder are not hyperactive but inattentive and impulsive. They have ADD, Attention Deficit Disorder.
Let’s understand what these terms mean.

* Inattentive: Children with ADHD have difficulty following instructions, organising tasks, giving close attention, focusing on required work, completing work in class or at home. They are forgetful in daily activity, lose necessary things like books or toys and get easily distracted.

* Hyperactive: Cannot sit to finish a meal, cannot sit still to finish a given task , walk around the class or room at home and create mess everywhere, displaying discomfort or distress, moving hands or feet nervously, restless and prone to excessive talking. Generally appears to be disruptive in class or misbehaving.
 
* Impulsive: Often interrupts and very impatient.

ADD is quite often missed during the early stage of development because children with inattentive issues sit quietly or may get along well with others but will not pay attention to a particular given task and show restlessness when they have to wait their turn.

Even though it is not caused by parenting style, good and structured parenting can help a great deal.

Every child is unique and different in reaching their developmental milestones. Sometimes these characteristics are commonplace.

All children get impulsive, have occasional short attention spans and get distracted but, at the same time, you, as a parent, will probably notice whether these characteristics appear too often. If that’s the case the best person to discuss it with is the child’s teacher. If the teacher shows the same concern then consult a pediatrician or specialist.

Parents can help improve matters. One way is to help train an increase in attention span by making a child sit down to do a task for 15 minutes and then slowly increase the duration to 30 then 45 minutes.

Exercise also helps to increase attention span. Take your child to join a martial arts class which can help develop concentration and make good use of excess physical energy.

Proper nutrition/ multi-vitamins may also help some children improve their attention span.

Teach a child how to relax, make them learn progressive relaxation techniques and even meditation.

And it’s important to understand your child rather than continually criticising them. In fact, pay extra attention to the child.

Do problem solving exercises on a regular basis, appoint a tutor to train them on social skills and help them with organisational skills.

Montessori curriculum/ classes are very good because they carry out learning tasks using all five senses. An ADHD child learns better through apprenticeship or hands-on experience.

Be aware of the child’s emotional state, help them to recognise and label the emotions they are feeling.
And, always listen to your child empathetically.

It is also helpful to teach a child how to better organise themselves, such as keeping things in designated places and by always breaking big assignments into a few smaller segments.

It is necessary to accept that your child needs more of your time, be specific in your praise and criticism and always explain the reasons for your actions and responses to them clearly. Share your experiences, feelings, thoughts and expectations with your child and encourage them to do the same with you.

And, most importantly, take proper care of yourself. Remember to take some time to relax. You will need extra energy and patience to properly guide your special child through the challenges ahead.
(More next week)

Dr Puja Taneja Malhotra,
Ph.D. Psychology,
Psychological Consultant, Trainer & Coach.