Typical characteristics of a learner with ADHD
How often do we hear the word ADHD?
Definitely, very often, any child who is even slightly restless or shows any kind of movement other than regular ones is considered to be suffering from ADHD.
How true is this?
Many more signals that we would never have imagined have to be looked into before we can use a term like ADHD for a growing child!
Signals to look out for:
How does the child get ADHD?
There is still not an absolute conclusion but research does say it could be
stress, usage of alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy, environmental
hazards like lead at an early age, premature delivery. It is the genetics,
biology and chemistry together actually causing the symptoms. Also, sensory
processing disorders not identified and treated earlier could result in
ADHD.
How does one test for ADHD?
There is not one single test which concludes that the child has ADHD. A lot
of interviews and checklists with the parents, teachers, other adults
around the child helps better to conclude the diagnosis.
Psychoeducational evaluation, Occupational therapy assessments do play a major part in diagnosis.
How to manage a child with ADHD symptoms?
The best combination for ADHD treatment includes Medications, Behavior
therapy, Occupational therapy, changing lifestyle habits like eating
healthy, physical activities added in routine, limiting the amount of
screen time and good quality and quantity of sleep which is also a must.
When should one approach the doctor?
It’s never late and remember early intervention with your Pediatricians,
child psychiatrists, will help resolve most of the issues before they cross
tough levels.
Does one need to change schools if the child is diagnosed with ADHD.
Uniqueness is a character bestowed to us, all children whether diagnosed or
not with ADHD are unique, and similarly are the symptoms. Inclusive support
programs at schools prove to be a healing factor for some but some may find
the years ahead a little more of a challenge. While growing up it is not
only academics that need a helping hand, it is also their self-confidence
and social approvals that is a part of society that needs to be looked into
and given equal if not more attention.
How difficult is it to find a school for a child with ADHD?
Harsh ways were the only ways as discussed earlier, falling into the dark
trap of sending your child to boarding school seemed to be the only option.
Today we are lucky to see the rise of special education institutes which
not only take care of the children but also mould their education to fulfil
the needs of society through extremely easy and competitive but children
friendly methods.
Mumbai on a whole has grown so much to be a home to so many special ed
schools for the special children.
The Aditya Birla Integrated School is one such school who inspires to
create happy confident balanced and independent learners.
They have an entire community of teacher’s, therapists, counselors’ staff
who are expertise in their own fields and together join hands in getting
the best out of every child with them.
NORMALLY A CHILD GOES TO SCHOOL TO LEARN, BUT HERE AT TABIS WE LEARN ABOUT THE CHILD.
Once we have done so we start their individual educational plans,
resources, co-curricular activities and therapeutic interventions,
providing an all rounded development to the child and creating happy and
satisfied human beings.
Last but not the least always remember
ADHD is not a disability it’s a different ability
Author: Rukaiya Harianwala
Occupational Therapist, The Aditya Birla Integrated School
Also read,
What is ADHD? How is the curriculum different for students with ADHD?
