Is My Child Hyperactive ?
Many parents find it difficult to
manage thier active children. These children would be continually moving about,
exploring the environment around them and in the process creating chaos. They
may not be able to sit still for even a little while to concentrate on any
activity. They want to be first to do anything and find it hard to wait their
turn. They don't seem to get tired.
Before any active child is said to
have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (the clinical term for the
significantly hyperactive child, he must show symptoms in 3 basic groups in
most settings (e.g home and school).
1. High level of motor activity
- always moving about, running
- can't sit still
- fidgeting
2. Poor concentration span
- can't pay attention to teachers in kindergarten or school
- can't complete assigned work or play activities even if it is just for
a
few minutes
- easily distracted
3. Impulsive behaviour
- needs to satisfy his own wants immediately
- can't wait for his turn in games
- interrupts or intrudes on others
Parents should be careful in not to
mislabel their normal but overactive, boisterous children as being hyperactive.
Depending on their age and stage of development, a certain degree of exuberance,
impulsivit and playfulness are considered normal.
When your child suffers from poor
achievement in school or has poor interactions with hyperactivity. Hyperactive
children are often considered naughty or delinquent.
When in doubt, do check with your doctor
for an evaluation.
Who Can Help My Child...?
The child who is suspected of being
hyperactive should be assesssed by a doctor (general practice or pediatrics
specialist). The doctor may not then refer the child for further assessment and
treatment if necessary to a child psychiatrist. Other professionals who are
involved in helping hyperactive children include clinical psychologist,
occupational therapists and special education (remedial) teachers.
Parents can do a lot to help their
hyperactive child.
Type of
Treatment for the Hyperactive Child.
1.
Behavioral techniques to help the child increase his self-control and
focus himself more usefully on daily tasks and interaction with other
children.
2. Medications, where necessary, to
increase attention span, to reduce
high motor activity levels and to reduce impulsive behaviour. Among
the most useful and effective is the group of medication of which
Methylphenidate is the most prominent. This requires specialist
prescription.
3.
Support and education of parents & family members on how to
manage the hyperactive child at
home.
4.
Remedial education for those hyperactive children who also have
problems with schoolwork. Creating awareness and helping teachers
to manage hyperactive children in
the classroom.
How to bring out the best in your
hyperactive child...?
1.
Get your child's attention first
(before you begin talking). Then make him look at you while you talk.
Give clear, concise insructions.
2.
Get your child to repeat for you selected parts of what you want them to
remember. Structure a routine for them. Supervise their keeping to the routine
which becomes their responsibility. Reward good,appropriate behaviour.
3.
Allow your child breaks to refresh themselves (during homework,
studying or chores). They will perform better after a 5 or 10 minutes
break. Allow them outlets every day to expand their excess energy
e.g.running in playing field or playing physically demanding games.
4.
Do not encourage rough unctrolled play between adults and the
hyperactive child.
5.
For the schoolgoing child, communicate with the class teacher
frequently.Consider getting help for the child's studies from a suitable
tutor, if necessary.
