Fredericksburg Parent

www.FredericksburgParent.NET 19 Fredericksburg pediatrician Dr. Mary Callahan, who has more than a dozen years of experience diagnosing and treating ADHD patients, particularly females, points out that every child is different as well as every diagnosis. "ADHD is a complex diagnosis requiring an intricate approach to best understand each child's presentation and design the best approach to treatment," Callahan says. "A large part of this involves good communication between members of their care team, which should include but is not limited to parents, physicians, teachers, school psychologists, babysitters and extended family members." Callhan adds: "There are so many subtle nuances between stages of childhood development and that of disordered development that one must have a broad understanding of all the factors at play to make a correct diagnosis." So, what should parents do if they suspect their child may have ADHD? "The first step is to talk to your pediatrician and see what they suggest," says Sood. "These days pediatricians are quite proficient at managing ADHD. They will make referrals for additional services as needed. These services may include seeing a child psychiatrist. If learning disabilities are suspected, getting a psychological evaluation is a good idea." What's next once they diagnose a child with ADHD? Treatment can include therapy and medication, such as stimulants, to help children learn to self-regulate. Assessing what might trigger difficulties in their daily environments is also key. "A well-trained therapist can evaluate multiple factors in that setting and identify ways to change or improve their relationship to the child's needs," Callahan says. "They can also gain a better understanding of how the child is being affected by these difficulties and set a plan in place to help foster self-esteem. Children need to understand that they, too, play a role in the management of their difficulties. It is vital for the care team to empower the child to help identify their struggles and play a role in creating strategies to overcome them." Sood also recommends that parents find resources or assistance in social skills training so they can set boundaries for their kids and teach them expected and appropriate behaviors. Altering diet and introducing calmer physical activities such as yoga may also help. There is no cure for ADHD, though some hyperactive symptoms may diminish with age. As parents navigate their child's behavior in order to determine what is normal and what may be ADHD, it's important for them to offer their child their patience, love, and support. "Try not to focus on the symptoms of the ADHD as your child is not defined by that," Sood says. "They have other gifts and strengths that need to be showcased. Building self-esteem while paying attention to the illness with appropriate management is paramount."

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