Early Childhood Intervention
This website is a place for families who are facing
challenges pertaining to their child's development and
growth.
It is a place to find answers and practical
suggestions. That's what Early Intervention Support is all
about.
Whether a family has a child with a challenging behavior,
a disability or developmental issue, childhood is short - it
should be savored and enjoyed.
Learn More:
Ask a Therapist
We understand developmental milestones and the challenges
of Special Needs children. We spend a great deal of time
with families understanding the inner workings of childhood
routines and interactions. Ask us about your child today!
Ask a Therapist
Behavior Tips: Attention Deficit Disorder
Thoughts on Attention Deficit Disorder
There is a common misconception that individuals with ADD are
hyperactive. The truth is - these people live in a state of low arousal, are
easily distracted, impulsive and have a short attention span. This state of
low arousal affects a person's entire life as the level of attention
required to meet the expectations of life is not sufficient. As a result, in
an attempt to try and compensate and help to focus, the body attempts to
wake up the system with self stimulating activities. This activity is what
is commonly labeled as the hyperactivity. This is different than the child
who simply has a high energy level and requires constant activity throughout
the day. Individuals with ADD also have difficulty with independent
functioning, problem solving, behavioral control, social difficulties and
may have problems with health maintenance.
Medications used to treat ADD increase alertness, decrease impulsivity and
sharpen focus. Medication alone is not the answer. Sleep, exercise, healthy
diet, stress management, counseling, structure, routine and therapy all need
to be used together to manage ADD. If you have any concerns about ADD talk
to a medical professional - seek out someone who has experience with ADD and
who will treat the whole individual. The diagnosis of ADD is a complex one
and should not be made after a two minute discussion but rather should
involve multiple assessments and evaluations.
By Tara Deringor, PT
More Parenting Tips Related to Behavior
Parenting Tips in Other Areas Include
Learn More About Early Intervention
Therapy Options
Thankfully, there are many ways to deal with childhood developmental
delays and behaviors. These include in-home services, outpatient (you take
your child to a clinic), inpatient (following injury or surgery) and school
based services. Which type of therapy should you choose?
Visit our Therapy Options
area to learn more.
Return to Top
|