DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE HYPERACTIVITY!
Children climbing door cases, jumping from couch to couch, not being able to sit still in their seats used to be called “mischievous” back in the day, but today the experts warn the parents about the possibility of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Experts say that families should seek professional help if their kids display the symptoms, and not underestimate the issue believing that “smart kids are hyperactive”.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Olga Selin Hünler, Lecturer at Izmir University of Economics (IUE) Department of Psychology, stated that 5% of school age children are diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder nowadays. Hünler said, “Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder may have behaviour disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, learning disability, tic disorder, anxiety, and depression concurrently. Intelligence and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are not correlated. The common belief that hyper kids are intelligent does not reflect the reality.”
Asst. Prof. Dr. Olga Selin Hünler indicated that lately families avoided treatment believing that their kids were highly intelligent and parents of kids with ADHD definitely needed to be in touch with a psychologist or a child psychiatrist. “Parents need to follow the recommendations of the specialist they consult and need to ask any questions that may need clarification. Family-specialist-teacher collaboration is very significant in treating ADHD,” said Dr. Hünler and indicated as a result of the treatment followed closely by doctor’s orders, the child would be on his way to a happier life with his creativity at the forefront.
‘Do not yell, award positive behaviour’
If you sense attention deficit, impulse control, more lack of control compared to his peers, you need to immediately consult a specialist stated Hünler, and made the following recommendations:
“If your child has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, use short and clear sentences, do not get into arguments, do not use long and detailed statements, and do no yell at your child. Be decisive and consistent with your child, set limits. Limits are important for all children but for children with ADHD, it is highly critical to set clear rules and limits. Make your rules plain and clear, and make sure your child understands those. Try to see the positive behaviours of your child, and award positive behaviour. Also be clear about what you are awarding the child for. Choose meaningful awards and set limits with awards as well.”
What are the symptoms of Attention Deficit?
During class activities or doing homework;
- imperfections, mistakes, or carelessness,
- pretending to be not listening,
- planning difficulties,
- difficulties in completing assignments,
- losing belongings,
- forgetting,
- being easily distracted (by sounds, lights, movements, etc.).
What are the symptoms of Hyperactivity?
- Having difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities,
- Having trouble sitting still during dinner, school, doing homework, and story time,
- Fidgeting and squirming in their seats, even getting up and walking around,
- Talking nonstop,
- Being constantly in motion.
