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Child ADHD Treatments

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a widespread disorder affecting dozens of American children in every school. If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, you will need to work with your child's doctor to explore treatment options. With the proper combination of medication and therapy treatments, your child can learn to live successfully with ADHD.

  1. What is ADHD?

    • ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, "affects an estimated 8 to 10% of school aged children," according to The Nemours Foundation. The available treatments run the gamut from diet regulation to medication; so how can you decide what is best for your child?

    My Child Might Have ADHD: Now What?

    • When we suspected that my oldest had ADHD, we consulted with our doctor. Once a diagnosis was made, we came up with a treatment plan that includes medication and behavior modification. Most ADHD treatment plans will include a combination of medication and therapy or other options. One cure-all for ADHD does not exist.

    Medical Treatment

    • Several options exist. You will probably have to try out more than one before you find a good fit for your child.
      • Stimulants--Though it seems contradictory to give a stimulant to a child who cannot sit still, these medications prove very helpful in the treatment of ADHD. According to the CDC website, "between 70 to 80 percent of children with ADHD respond positively to these medications." Ritalin is the classic example of this type of drug; my son takes Vyvanse daily.
      • Nonstimulants--These carry fewer side effects and last longer, according to the CDC website. Stratera and Clonindine are examples of this medication. My son takes Clonindine at bedtime to help him sleep.
      • Antidepressants--Doctors use these sparingly, as they carry a risk of increased suicidal tendencies in children and teens (Nemours Foundation).

    Behavioral Therapy Options

    • In combination with medication, behavioral therapy helps a child learn to manage his or her own symptoms and create a regimen that will provide a successful environment for the child.
      • Organizational Systems--Children with ADHD need order and structure. Setting up a system of organization for daily functions can improve a child's success in dealing with these functions. This might include organizing space for homework, school supplies and toys.
      • A Scheduled Routine--A routine helps a child with ADHD understand how his or her day will proceed and focus on one task at a time. The Nemours Foundation adds this advice: "Post the schedule in a prominent place, so your child can see what's expected throughout the day and when it's time for homework, play, and chores."
      • Limit Options--Let your child choose between two cereals at breakfast, or three games after dinner. Giving a child with ADHD multiple options only serves to over-stimulate and confuse them.

    Trial and Error

    • If your child has ADHD, be prepared to try a variety of treatment options. With perseverance and education, you will eventually find a program that works for you and your child. With my son, as a result of his treatment plan, we have seen improvements in his behavior at school and at home. The medications and modifications we have made to his lifestyle help him to focus and to succeed.

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