Latest ADHD ADD Information

Exposure to Smoke Increases Risk of ADHD

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

A recent study indicates that women who smoked during their pregnancy increase the chances that their offspring will be afflicted with ADHD/ADD. Read more HERE

ADHD Kids Figured This out!

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:34:00 +0000

I recently saw this in a newsletter with a posing question: Which way is this bus facing? ADHD kids were able to answer this question more often than those without. In other words is this a picture of the right side or the left side of bus? Can you answer it? Post your answers!

Answer will be posted tomorrow 11-5-2009

Does Everybody Lose Stuff- or Just Those With ADHD?

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:54:00 +0000

My son has an animal project due on Monday. There was a packet to explain how to do it that was supposedly sent home last week. However, my son has no idea where it is or even what he is to do for the project. His response is the usual, "I don't know Ma."

Yesterday, I told him to ask for another packet. When he arrived home after school he told me that his teacher would not make copies. What? How does she expect him to complete it? He said that he also got his card flipped because he didn't have it. (This is a form of punishment at his school)

This morning I went into the school 15 minutes before the first bell and asked her myself. She looked at Erik and asked him what he did with it. Would she not assume I already did that and it's a moot point to ask an ADHD child what he did with a paper from last week! I was told that there is a paper shortage and they are not permitted to make additional copies.

I asked her, "How do you expect for him to finish the project if he doesn't have the instructions?"
"Well, he can get it from another student."
"Okay, and how is he to copy it, if there is a paper shortage?"
"They should learn not to lose their papers", she added.
"I understand that but sometimes even adults lose papers. So you are telling me that as an adult you have never lost your checkbook, bank statement, a pending bill, the title to your car, your credit card, your shoes etc. If that is the case then you should be in the Guinness Book of World Records.
I will nominate her myself!

Mentioning that I would be going to the board of education did get me a copy before the start of school from the other 3rd grade teacher. Erik's teacher told me she left her master copy at home.

To that I replied, "Consider your card flipped!"

It's IEP (Indivualized Education Plan)/ Evaluation Time

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 11:18:00 +0000

The schools will be asking you to write a mission statement for you child and together you should be reviewing last years goals and accomplishments. Remember that you are a part of your child's educational team so your input is important. Write down the following and also include items that may be of an advantage. (For example, my son's reports are to be typewritten instead of by hand. He has poor writing skills and will lose interest if it becomes too time consuming.)
1. Likes- Stay away from the negative, dislikes. Include sports, hobbies
2. Skills- Strengths- What is he/she good at?
3. What do you see he/ she doing in the future?
4. Educational goals for next year, What do you want to see he she learn?
5. How does he or she interact with family and friends? Be Honest but avoid being negative.
If you do not agree with something that is the plan, now is the time to speak up. Some of the people present may be teacher, principal, school board representative, yourself, and anyone you may want to bring with you.
Request that what you wrote be stapled directly to next year's IEP. Good luck.

Using Medication for ADHD Relief

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 04:43:00 +0000

If you choose medication to control your or your child's ADHD (ADD), it is best to become knowledgeable about the different drugs, and side effects before making your final decision. Below is the most common drugs given to relieve symptoms.

I have compiled the information from different sources and spoke with children and adults who take that particular medicine. I do not refer to the maker's web sites. As always, questions and comments are welcome!

LONG ACTING STIMULANTS 8-12 hours

Focalin XR- Similar to Focalin only long lasting. Have heard of great stories, but my son had extreme irritability and anxiety. Since then I have heard of others that experienced the same thing. Inability to go to sleep due to the long acting formula, loss of appetite and nausea. High risk of abuse. Can slow a child's growth. Adults with heart disease should be cautious; there has been cases of of sudden death. MORE

Concerta - Well tolerated in teens. Have heard of cases were children had side effects. Long term use can stunt a child's growth. Loss of appetite and nausea is common. Last for 12 hours so you may have difficulty sleeping.MORE

Adderall XR- Similar to Adderall only extended release. Many have positive results, more so with females. However, many boys have had difficult side effects including severe mood swings or extreme weepiness when it wears off. This drug was taken off the Canadian market due to sudden deaths in children on the medication. MORE

Vyvanse- Newer drug. Most have positive results with the ability to focus. Works all day. The trouble with long acting is that you may have trouble getting to sleep at night.Be sure to take it as early as possible. Loss of appetite is common and the norm. Headaches and nausea are also common. MORE

NON STIMULANT MEDICATION

Strattera- Initial response is effective. There has been a relapse in symptoms after a year of use. Side effects are stomach ache, headache. Male side effects: erectile dysfunction. Teens may have depression. For some they see no difference on this med. Some people have experienced severe fatigue. When it wears off, you may tire rapidly and "crash". This is classified as a non stimulant drug. MORE

Get your Kids and Teens to Ingest Something Healthy

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:26:00 +0000

Do you have trouble getting your kids to eat healthy? Especially true after Halloween when they know the "good stuff" is still sitting atop the frig in the plastic jack-o-lantern. Most kids and teenagers go through periods of picking at their food and ingesting very little, or going for the sugary snacks over the healthier ones.

Protein drinks may sound really nasty to your kids but jazzing these up makes it appealing and is easier than you think.
This recipe has proven desirable and has even been served as breakfast when kids refuse to eat before going to school. Toss all the ingredients below into a blender on a high speed until you reach the desired consistency.
__________________________________
Super Cool Milkshake
5 ice cubes
1 cup of milk
1 scoop of protein drink powder (recommended: Spiru-tein Vanilla, there is a variety of other flavors too.)
Below is variations:
___________________________
Sweet Super Shake

Add to the above ingredients:
2-3 teaspoons of sugar (yes sugar, it is still less than in soft drinks
and/or 1 scoop frozen yogurt (choose your favorite flavor)
___________________________
Blue Ghoul Milkshake

Add to The Super Cool Shake:
1 scoop frozen yogurt
3 teaspoons sugar
1/2 cup blueberries (high in antioxidants)
5-10 drops blue food coloring (personal color choice)
____________________________
Create your own variations for your children until you come up with a fantastic taste sensation. Remember to share your creations on this blog site.

The end result is over 14 grams of protein, 1 gr of fiber (more with blueberries)and over 100% of the daily recommended allowances in vitamins A,C,D,E,B6 and B12 along with Zinc, Iodine, Riboflavin and Niacin.
It's fast and easy to make. Great tasting and healthy for all ages.
Be the awesome caregiver who serves milkshakes for breakfast and snacks
Stop back to share your story!

Visit our site for apparel. ADHD items coming soon!
Come visit my store on CafePress!
_______________
*Special Notes*

*While Spiru-tein is recommended there is a variety of other brands. Important to steer clear of those with an unpleasant aftertaste. You may have to use more sugar to overcome the taste.
Frozen yogurt is a healthier alternative to ice cream, but the latter can be used.
If your child has a significant weight loss that causes concern seek professional help*

A New School Year

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 20:13:00 +0000

With your child beginning a new school year, it is wise for parents to make an introduction to your child's new teacher.

This is important for all parents but especially so for those with special needs' children.

Make a quick intro the first day and ask when it convenient for a longer conversation(preferably within the first week). Respect the fact that the first day is chaotic for the teachers as well as the students.
This is not an official meeting but just a quick conversation. This is to meet the new teacher and see that she knows about your child. Don't make it a long conversation.

IEP - Did the new teacher read it and do they have any questions or comments? Is there anything that you as the parent want to add or remove.
Communication- Make sure the new teacher knows that you can be contacted with any problems and concerns. If you are the type to volunteer for field trips or be classroom helper now is the time to mention it.
Ask her/him if they have any questions or comments.
Say "Good Bye" and be on your way.

If your child is starting a new school, you may want to introduce yourself to others who are an integral part of your child's education. (i.e. Principal, counselors, teacher aides, etc.)

Hope this is a springboard to a successful school year!

I.E.P. Meeting with the School

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sat, 03 May 2008 15:59:00 +0000

Sorry I have been away for awhile but I am back.....

A recent meeting with the school propelled me to write some important information parents and students may find helpful.

This was my first review with the school of my son's IEP. (Individualized Education Plan) If you don't have an IEP in place I suggest you get one. It is beneficial, so the student can learn and absorb information that's best for himself/herself.

Prior to the meeting, the teacher should give you a draft of the IEP. If you don't get a draft then ask for one and preferably as far in advance as possible. Read it carefully before the meeting. I added information and my own comments/ questions where necessary. Since it is a draft, feel free to write on it. I also wrote (on separate sheets) what outcomes I expected for the following school year for my child. I also included his strengths. (stir clear of weaknesses, the school will pick those out without your help), interests and extracurricular activities, as well as his likes and dislikes.

Do not worry if it is not written formally or has grammatical errors, as long as you clearly make your point.

The school more or less wanted a single mission statement, but I couldn't put the many facets of my son into a sentence or two. Your best bet is to ask the school to copy what you wrote and attach it to the IEP with a note in the future planning box ..."see attached". Keep your copy for future reference. This plan is for the future teacher/s to fully understand your child. Don't be afraid that you are adding to much information (I had 6 handwritten pages).

If you know who next years teacher will be offer him/ her a copy before the end of this school year. If you aren't that lucky, make it a point to introduce yourself to the new instructor first thing in the fall and ask if they read it. Also, you may want to ask for feed back, comments or questions! Not only does it show you are active in your child's education but can also act as verification as to whether they actually read it or not.

Helping Your Child Succeed in School

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:51:00 +0000

My son’s teacher , Mrs. Patty, had reported that Erik was disorganized and was having difficulty getting started in the daily routine. Along with this, my son has been misplacing many important school papers, flashcards and textbooks. I knew that he did not bring any of these items home so they had to be lost at school. I asked him if his desk was messy and the obvious answer was “Yes”. After asking his teacher for permission, I went in after school and helped him straighten out the great abyss he called a desk. With the teachers help, we were directed of what papers could be tossed out and which could be taken home. My son and I organized the remaining contents by subject and placed any loose crayons, pencils, and markers into the appropriate containers. Once we completed he felt a sense of accomplishment. An eight year old ADHD child could not have accomplished a feat like this on his own. Before leaving I went over how it was organized. I also instructed him to place all items taken out back in the same spot. The next day I followed up with his teacher via e-mail, who informed that he was much better organized and gave me kudos for being a great mom!
It is important to realize that your child is not being lazy or stupid. They cannot organize their thoughts let alone a desk or locker. Helping your child is part of Behavior Therapy and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics as part of a long term management plan. Some children can find what they are searching regardless of the fact that the desk is overflowing with papers and hasn’t fully closed since the second week of school. More than likely these are not ADHD children. Your child may need help and should not leave you feeling like a class A enabler. Any help you can give will increase your child’s chance for success in school and later in life. I should stress “help” not doing it yourself.
This tale could have stopped there but the real point is what transpired after.
The day after our desk cleaning, my son mentioned it to his Learning Disability teacher Mrs. Nickel. He came home to report that Mrs. Nickel did not want me coming to school and cleaning out the desk anymore. I was rather taken aback and asked him if he was positive she said that. He told me “yes” …she called it “unpapropriate” “Inappropriate?” I asked. I was shocked that a teacher whose specialty is dealing with children of varied learning disabilities would make a comment about my parenting intervention especially to a child. If she finds my actions inappropriate I would rather she confronts me.
I cannot stress enough the importance of being your child’s advocate especially with the educational system. While they may have educational degrees and a general knowledge on the subject, you know your child’s capabilities and limitations better than anyone. Any concerns or issues arising about your child should be addressed immediately with the proper school official. (Start with the one directly concerned and work your way up the ladder if you don’t get a resolution.) Keep emotions to a minimum while expressing your concerns. Do not let the educational system dissuade your efforts when you know it would benefit your child.
I sent the letter below to her the following day to which I never received a response.
Dear Ms Nickel,
While I appreciate all your efforts and capabilities as the LD teacher at Stone-Brook, I am somewhat disappointed to your reaction of my helping Erik clean out his desk. Correct me if I am misinformed, but you told Erik that it was “inappropriate” and that he should do it himself. Are you concerned that he‘s lazy? I am disturbed by your negative response. You, as a LD teacher, should know that a feat such as this is almost impossible without assistance.
I am not only an expert on Erik’s needs and capabilities, but also well informed on ADHD. I have read many books on the subject, receive many newsletters and maintain an ADHD blog. Children with the ADHD disorder are disorganized and inattentive. Desk cleaning requires both skills and such a major task would cause elevated anxiety.
I would like to suggest that you become better informed on Learning Disabilities especially ADHD. There is an excellent website: ADDinSCHOOL.com that suggests and I quote, “Your ADD ADHD student should have a regularly scheduled time for cleaning up his desk at least once a week. However he may need some help from teachers, volunteers, or his parents.” Mrs. Patty does a incredible job and does not need the extra task of helping Erik get organized. That’s why I am more than happy to assist. This website is a great resource for parents, as well as educators and is maintained by Douglas Cowan Psy.D. M.S. who has 15 years experience working with ADHD children. Also, please find attached the latest handout from the American Academy of Pediatrics which mentions improving your child’s environment as part of his/her behavior therapy.
My helping him was an attempt to organize his school environment so that he can be successful and should not be viewed as inappropriate. He is not being lazy, which is a common misconception about ADHD children. I feel I should mention that I help again when the need arises, despite your opposition. Thank you for your concern.

Sincerely,

* Please note : Names were changed *

ADHD - Be Well Informed

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:52:00 +0000

Myth vs Fact: Knowing fact from fiction can better position you in dealing with others that have direct contact with your child. Lack of knowledge on your part lets others make fundemental decisions in treatment and even disipline.
My son was first put an Adderall and the school system thought he should magically tranform into the model student. My lack of knowledge made me beleive the same thing. Afterall,(I thought) they have experience in dealing with ADHD children so they should know what they are doing. WRONG! This is especially true if your child is newly diagnosed. One teacher informed me that she would NEVER medicate her kid! She made me feel horrible. Come to find out she NEVER had kids. Once I knew the facts about the disorder, I often challenged them on some of their discipline and teaching tactics. This lead to the school getting frustrated with me! I realized I was more informed on ADHD than they were (or maybe more open to recent info) and my son's only advocate. I backed up my statements/ questions with facts or data that I read in reputable magazines leaving them speechless and intolerable to not only my son but me. This is a list of three, but please feel free to add any that you have encountered.

Dispelling the Myths.
Myth: Parents just cannot control their kids.

Before I had a child with ADHD, I assumed that it was purely a displinary problem. As an ADHD parent you may already know that is far from the truth. The way you punished your other children simply doesnot work on your ADHD child. Despite having attention deficit, my son can hold out to prove a point. There were times I was so frustrated that I put him in time out until he apologized for yelling and agreed to pick up his mess. Much to my surprise he sat on his stool refusing to give in. I actually had to let him up so he could get ready for bed. Your child is not being unruly, it's just that that cannot comprehend requests that you may make especially if it involves any kind of organizational or concentration skills. Like cleaning their room, doing homework etc. The parent gets angry and will bark a series of commands to a child that you lost shortly after you opened your mouth. Some children may deliberately push your buttons because they like the noise and the attention.(my son has ODD as well, so it may contribute.) As parent we need to make some noise whengiving praise. I 've made up a song and dance routines for a passing grade on a spelling test or making a new friend. I've also started counting to ten during the chaotic moments and learned to lower my volume. Combined, these tactics work quite well. For further informaion on effective discipline, I would highly recommend "1-2-3 Magic" by Thomas Phelan Phd. (No, I am not paid for that but I should get a commision on all the copies I recommended to friends.) I have read many books and in my opinion this is the best on the subject even for children who are not ADHD (and it really seems like magic). You are not a bad parent who does not know how to discipline your child, you just need different stategy.

Myth: ADHD is related to a poor diet -high in sugar and carbs.

My friend is extremely health conscious and has given me much information on diet and ADHD. While she means well, ADHD is an actual disorder. If you were diagnosed with Type II diabetes and needed to take shots of insulin, would you try to control it with diet instead ? Or if your child had a heart condition that required medication would you treat it with herbal remedies? Personally, I feel refined sugar and high fructose corn syrup should be consumed in moderation (if at all )but, that is not an ADHD issue as it is related to general health. Brain scans of ADHD children show a significant increase in area of that brain that controls hyperactivity. There is also a decrease in impulse control. From experience we have all figured out that this is an unbearable combination. My son was 2 years old when he decided to plumment from the fifth step of our front porch to the the concrete below. He didn't even hesitate and was ready to do it again until I stopped him! He was not all hopped up on sugar, in fact I have always restricted the amount of his consumption. There is not significant evidence to indicate that increased sugar consumption equates to hyperactivity. When your kid asks for a snack, don't feel guilty about giving a sugary treat along with a well balanced diet.

Myth: ADHD children are stupid and lazy.

What a load of crap! The school principal actually told me this about my son in so many words. When family members believe that your kid isn't trying it can be most irritating. There is not any evidence showing that ADHD kids have lower IQs or that they are just lazy . Academically, they may be behind in some subjects, especially those that require studying and memorization. Doing home work can be a nightmare for these children. Reasearch shows that many of our special children show a higher IQ and above average creativity. My son, who is an average student, can construct the most amazing devices and contraptions with actual uses. Einstein, who exhibited signs of ADHD, did not speak intil he was four and did not read until he was seven but is viewed as one of the most intelligent persons of our time. Einstein took risks and tossed conventional thinking to the wind. Terry Bradshaw, Mariete Hartley, Woody Harrelson and Dexter Scott King have all been diagnosed with ADHD and have made memorable contributions to society. So where is the stupid or lazy? Their common thread is their willingnes to take risks in order to fulfil their individual ambitions.