ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. This causes differences in brain development and brain activity; it affect attention, the ability to sit still, and self-control. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active.
ADHD often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It may contribute to low self-esteem, troubled relationships and difficulty at school or work.
Our team of occupational therapists are skilled at working with children with ADHD/ADD. We recognize that the condition affects each person and family differently and therefore we aim to provide a bespoke approach to help them manage everyday life.
OT strategies for home or school may be:
- Sleep training strategies – to reduce night time activity and waking
- Social stories – to help teach the child how to act in certain situations such as initiating social communication with class mates
- Sensory processing – to identify what the difficulties are and their impact on daily life, then provide strategies and treatment as needed. Sensory processing for children with ADHD is a very successful treatment method and can assist a child to remain focused for increased periods of time
- Visual cues – to support routines, we look at breaking the tasks down into small, achievable activities to help the child remain focused and develop independence
- Routines – providing ideas to give routine and structure to manage daily life and cope with changes when they occur.
- Physical skills -to develop strength and coordination, enabling a child to participate in activities with their peers.
- Educating school or nursery staff – on how to help a child with ADHD engage with the curriculum within their own parameters.