Let’s start with what ADHD is. It stands for attention deficit hyperactivity 
disorder and is thought to affect around 3% of children. The condition is a result of a chemical imbalance in the part of the brain that affects attention, concentration and impulsivity.
This obviously can have a major affect on schooling and support is essential. Your first port of call if your child is below school age is your doctor, if your child is at school contact the teacher and talk to them. Either your doctor or school should refer your child to a specialist if the suspect your child has ADHD.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD symptoms fall into 3 different categories, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.
Hyperactivity
Unable to sit still which is worse when the child is in quiet or calm surroundings.
Will not stop talking and interrupting at the wrong moments.
Excessive fidgeting.
Have problems completing tasks set for them.
Excessive talking.
Impulsiveness
Excessive interrupting of other people’s conversations.
Giving little thought to their actions and their consequences.
Breaking rules.
Not able to understand they need to wait for their turn.
Does not understand the concept of danger.
Inattentiveness
Losing and forgetting things.
Does not pay attention to detail and can make carless mistakes.
Failing to pay attention when somebody is talking directly to them.
Regularly losing everyday items.
Fails to complete homework and tasks given to them in the home or in the workplace.
How do you cope with a child with ADHD?
Firstly learn as much as you can about the condition, read books and visit websites. This knowledge will help you understand what your child is experiencing and will help you make better decisions on how to deal with ADHD.
Remember that their behavior is not their fault – they can’t help it. Understanding this fundamental point is essential for all parents of an ADHD child.
Get yourself involved in ADHD groups. Meeting parents of other children with ADHD will help you understand the condition more and give you the chance to help each other.
Nicola sanders is one of the main writers on the website www.baby-names.tv. The site has more than 27,000 baby names available. The site also covers most topics related to baby health, pregnancy week by week and pregnancy week by week.
