What Are the Treatments for Children With ADD?

Attention deficit disorder, also known as ADD, is a condition noticed mainly in children of preschool or early school-year age. The child exhibits disorderly behavior, being unable or unwilling to pay attention, having short attention spans and displays of outbursts. Early intervention and treatments can greatly help the child interact normally with family and friends.

Medication

• Stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Dexedrine are those most commonly prescribed for children with ADD. Stimulants balance chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters, which helps to improve the hyperactivity of children with ADD. These drugs have a short life span, so they wear off quickly. The amount needed will also vary for each child, so it will take time to find the proper dosage. Side effects of these medications can be loss of appetite, sleep deficiency and irritability as the medicine wears off. Some children are also given antidepressants if a mood disorder also is present.

Behavior Therapy

• Counseling or behavior therapy can be beneficial in helping children with attention deficit disorder. A psychiatrist, psychologist or social worker can provide treatment. Talking with a psychiatrist or psychologist helps the child verbalize the feelings she has and to learn how to deal with the negative aspects of ADD. With behavior therapy, teachers and family can learn how to diffuse difficult situations, such as using rewards for good behavior and timeouts or loss of privileges for bad behavior.

Home Treatments

• Displaying lots of affection to a child with ADD can help with his self-esteem. Only focusing on his negative behavior won't help and makes your relationship with the child even more strained. Stay calm in situations when your child acts out. The more upset you become, the more the child will feed off your frustration. Keeping regular schedules for meals and bedtime will help your child stay focused. Children with ADD need routine, and disruptive changes only aggravate their condition. Make sure your child gets adequate rest, as being overtired makes symptoms worse.

School

• Stay in close contact with your child's teachers. When teachers are aware of a child with ADD, they can provide an environment that will help her function better in class. Keep them informed of your child's progress and what kind of help she may need, as far as learning and interacting with other children.