Choosing the best treatment for a child with ADHD relies heavily on understanding the level of the disorder that the child has. In all likelihood, each child will need a combination treatment plan that addresses his or her specific ADHD-related issues. A team made up of the child's therapists, doctors, educators and parents will need to all come together to devise the best option. Each participant will contribute to identifying the child's particular concerns, so both home and school life can be harmonious for all.
Behavior modification is the practice of teaching children how to alter their pattern of actions and behaviors directly or indirectly related to specific triggers. By ignoring the child's inappropriate actions, a decrease in the frequency occurs. When the child does not receive attention for the behavior, he or she quickly learns there is no reason to engage in it. In addition to ignoring negative behaviors, adults acknowledge and encourage appropriate behaviors with rewards and praise to increase their occurrence.
A child with ADHD often becomes overstimulated or excited in a classroom that has too much going on. Too many classmates, an excessive number of toys or wall decorations and a slew of scheduled activities all contribute to an environment that is not suitable for children with ADHD. A classroom with a smaller ratio of students to teachers will provide the extra attention needed as well as a less stimulating atmosphere.
Children benefit more when parents receive therapy as well. When parents learn how to handle the inappropriate actions of the child, it becomes more conducive to a therapeutic treatment plan for the child. Dealing with the stress of the child's actions is easier when the right tools are learned, and the child will be less inclined to react in the wrong way in response. Therapy for the parents also provides an opportunity for the family to cope with the impact of having a child with ADHD.
Most of the medications that are currently available to treat ADHD are not approved for use in children under the age of 6. However, some drugs are okay for preschool-aged children and have been shown to be effective. A psychiatric evaluation by a licensed professional with experience dealing with preschoolers will determine if medication is appropriate for the child.