What does add do to young children. and how can i help them?

Hyperactivity: Attention deficity disorder (not the hyperactive part) is almost unheard of before 6 or 7 years old. Not because it isn't there, but it is almost impossible to diagnose. We do see hyperactivity disorders in younger children from time to time, and generally giving them opportunity to exercise, making sure they get sleep, avoiding stimulants helps. If not, or if it's worsening, have them evaluated.

3 Features: Add affects children with more than normal ( which can be hard to define) --- distractability, impulsivity and difficulty with organization. These symptoms appear when these skills are required, usually school situations, which is why it can be difficult to diagnose in younger children. In kids without add, these characteristics may disappear with maturity.

Variable: If hyperactivity/impulsivity are the major symptoms, very young children with adhd may be in danger of physical injury (falling off high things, running into traffic, falling in swimming pool, ingesting poisons, getting lost). Safe guard the environment and never leave them unattended. For long term consequences of adhd, see my health hints.

Add & kIds: Add/adhd in the young child places him/her at risk for injuries, poor relation with peers, poor parent child interaction, difficulty thriving in daycare or preschool among other issues.Behavioral intervention and parent training are the main elements in therapy.Avoid focusing on thre diagnosis and concentrate in helping the child.

Early-onset ADHD can: present at 2 yrs. 7 mos., according to a Harvard study. Risk factors are strong family history, prematurity, prenatal exposure to alcohol, tobacco or drugs, developmental delays, or chaotic home environment. An attention span of 3-4 minutes can be normal till age 5, so it presents as ADHD-Primarily Hyperactive/Impulsive Type. Parent Behavior Management Training & consistent routine are vital.