What is and is not Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

The word 'hyperactive' is a diagnosis made by the environment or family to almost every high-energy child today. But Hyperactivity is much different than high energy or just being active. Children who are referred to in this way by their teachers, neighbors, friends or family - that is, by people who are not experts on the subject - sometimes stop exhibiting the behaviors that are generally expected by society from the very beginning, sometimes after making an effort. Because what is expected from them is to 'misbehave' and even if it is not their fault, the first person that comes to mind is these children. For these reasons, knowing what the concepts discussed are and how to behave affects a child's present and entire future.

Another issue, the ability to focus, does not mean that children pay attention to every area. While children can sometimes focus on subjects that interest them for hours, they may have difficulty paying attention to subjects they do not like. The important point here is whether they have the following symptoms and whether these conditions disrupt their daily or academic lives.

What are the symptoms of inattention?

1.Cannot pay attention to details

2. Has difficulty maintaining attention.
3. Doesn't seem like he's listening
4. Can't follow directions
5. Has difficulty organizing tasks or activities
6. Often loses necessary objects
7. Avoids tasks that require sustained mental effort
8. Gets distracted easily
9. Is forgetful in daily activities

What are the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity?

1. His hands and feet are unstable and fidgety when he sits.
2. Cannot sit properly during class
3. Runs around or climbs excessively
4. Has difficulty playing games quietly
5. Most of the time it is moving or the engine seems stuck
6. talks excessively
7. Pastes answers before questions are completed
8. Has difficulty waiting his turn
9. Interrupts others or interferes with their work

What can families with children diagnosed with ADHD do to support?

1. It is important to show positive attention to children and to support and reinforce their positive behavior with verbal and non-verbal actions.
2. Create a response-cost system rather than a punishment method. The sanction should be related to the child's behavior and should not include verbal or behavioral violence (such as shortening the playing time the next day if he did not attend classes during the day and played computer games).
3. Create areas where he can release his energy. Depending on the age group, games that will make them stop first and then take action will be helpful (Dance while the music is playing - stop when it stops).
4. Pay attention to your diet, healthy foods and a Mediterranean diet are recommended.
5. You can do activities related to attention, such as painting a mandala or finding the differences in the picture.
6. Simplify his room, keep his toys in boxes as much as possible.