Independent research project

1. Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Elyssa (Dobrinsky) Rudin EDUC 803

2. What is ADHD? ADHD is a “syndrome characterized by serious and persistent difficulties in….attention span, impulse control, and hyperactivity.” (“Teaching Children with”, 1998). It is a chronic disorder that may begin during a child’s infant years and continue through adulthood. Approximately 3-5% of the current school-age population is affected by ADHD (“Teaching Children with”, et. al.). Among all childhood behavior disorders, ADHD is one of the most common ones found in children. (Brock, 2002)

4. Brain injury

5. Environmental exposure (example: lead)

6. Alcohol or tobacco use during pregnancy

7. Premature delivery

8. Low birth weight ("Facts About ADHD", 2010)

10. Hyperactivity

11. Impulsivity Each of the above symptoms have different signs that can be seen in children with ADHD. (Smith, Jaffe-Gill, & Segal, 2010)

12. Signs of Inattention Individual does not pay attention to detail or makes careless mistakes Distracted easily and has trouble focusing Seems not to listen when being spoken to Has trouble following directions and remembering things Unorganized and has trouble planning ahead and/or finishing products or activities Often loses or misplaces items (Smith, et.al.)

13. Signs of Hyperactivity Constantly moving and fidgeting Often gets up from seat at times when sitting quietly is expected Always moving around Talks excessively Has trouble playing quietly Always has lots of energy (Smith, et.al.)

14. Signs of Impulsivity Screams out answers without waiting to be called on or before hearing the entire question Has trouble waiting for their turn Frequently interrupts and disrupts others “Intrudes” on other people’s conversations or activities (Smith, et.al.)

16. Hyperactive and impulsive, but is able to pay attentionBeing inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive all at the same time is the most common form of ADHD but it is not the ONLY form. (Smith, et.al.)

17. Other Signs & Symptoms of ADHD Daydream Easily distracted from what they are doing Forgetful Act and speak before thinking ("Facts About ADHD", 2010)

18. Treatment for ADHD There is no single treatment that will cure ADHD. Medication combined with behavior therapy can help children with ADHD control the symptoms of ADHD ("Facts About ADHD", et. al.)

20. Positives of ADHD Creativity Flexibility Enthusiasm and spontaneity Energy and motivation (Smith, et. al.)

23. Most Importantly… Make sure the classroom is a safe and risk-free environment!!! (“ADHD Helpful Hints”)

24. References ADHD Helpful Hints for Classroom Teachers. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://newideas.net/adhd/child/adhd-school-teacher-tips Andries, D. (2004, August 24). Classroom Strategies for ADHD. Retrieved from http://www.suite101.com/content/teaching-the-adhd-child--part-1-a5768 Brock, S.E. (2002). Helping the Students With ADHD in the Classroom. Retrieved from http://www.nasponline.org/resources/handouts/special%20needs%20template.pdf Facts About ADHD. (2010, May 25). Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/conditions.html How Does ADHD Affect School Performance? (2010). Retrieved from http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_How_Does_ADHD_Affect/ Smith, M., Jaffe-Gill, E., & Segal, R. (2010, January). ADD / ADHD in Children. Retrieved from http://helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_signs_symptoms.htm Teaching Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD ADD. (1998). Retrieved from http://www.childrensdisabilities.info/adhd/teaching-adhd.html