ADHD/Learning Disabilities
The Centers for Disease Control states that in 2006, more than 4.5 million children 5 to 17 years of age have been diagnosed with ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Children diagnosed with ADHD between the ages of 12 to 17 are also more likely to also have a Learning Disability. Common symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat when sitting still is expected.
- Often has trouble playing or doing leisure activities quietly.
- Often excessively runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate.
- Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
- Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
- Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
Services for a child with ADHD or a Learning Disability include conducting a Functional Assessment Interview with the parents and school staff members followed by observations of the child during the school day or other times of the day that are difficult for the child. Upon completion of the interview and observations, a behavior reduction plan is developed to address the areas of concern.
Once a behavior plan is designed, therapists at Behavioral Consulting of Tampa Bay meet with teachers and parents to discuss the implementation process and conduct follow-up to ensure the plan is effective at reducing the probability of disruptive behavior.
Because children with ADHD/LD generally exhibit some form of problem behavior, such as remaining off-task or annoying other children, therapists develop and implement strategies specific to each child. This may include teaching the child organization and self-management skills, utilizing visual schedules, arranging the environment or breaking general skills into smaller parts.
