Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder. This means it is a condition caused by differences in the development and function of the nervous system. ADHD affects people’s behavior and can cause them to be hyperactive and struggle with acting on impulses and concentrating.

There is no known cure for ADHD, but it can be managed with appropriate supports and treatment. The level of treatment needed is different for every child. While some children may be able to function relatively well with minimal treatment, others may need intensive care to help manage their symptoms. This m

Types of ADHD

There are three ways that ADHD presents throughout a child’s life:

Predominantly inattentive: A child struggles with concentrating, especially when they are trying to focus on one thing for a prolonged amount of time, such as homework.

Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive: A child struggles with acting on impulses, fidgeting or talking a lot. They may often be impatient or irritated when they want something.

Combined: A child struggles with controlling impulses, hyperactive behaviors, and concentrating and becomes easily distracted. This tends to be the most common type of ADHD that we treat in the children we serve at KVC Missouri.

Signs and Symptoms

It can be difficult for a child to understand and explain what they are feeling so it’s very important for caregivers to pay close attention to behaviors.

There are two types of behavioral challenges someone with ADHD may experience—inattentiveness and hyperactivity/ impulsiveness. A child may have challenges that fall into one or both of these categories, including:

Inattentiveness:

• Short attention span, easily distracted
• Appearing forgetful, often losing things
• Making several, simple mistakes or missing details
• Unable to complete tasks that are time-consuming
• Unable to listen well or follow instructions
• Frequently changing to different activities or tasks
• Difficulty organizing tasks or thoughts

Hyperactivity and impulsiveness:

• Unable to sit still, especially in calm or quiet settings
• Constantly fidgeting or making excessive physical movements
• Talking a lot
• Impatient, such as unable to wait their turn
• Impulsive, often acting without thinking
• Interrupting conversations, finishing other people’s sentences
• Doesn’t seem to sense or fear danger

What You Can Do to Help

If you know a child who is struggling with ADHD, here are some ways you can support them:

• Keep a consistent routine with them every day, from wake-up time to bedtime. Keep the schedule somewhere that they can always see it, such as on the refrigerator or a bulletin board in the family room. If there needs to be changes to the schedule, let them know as far in advance as possible. A predictable schedule is extremely helpful for all children, especially those with ADHD.

• Keep everyday items well organized so that each item has a specific place where they can always find it. This may include having a designated shelf for their backpack, cleaning favorite clothing items often and always organizing clothes in the same drawers.

• Use organizers for school materials, homework and supplies. Help them understand the importance of writing down assignments and bringing home the necessary books.

• Remain clear and consistent when giving directions, rules or other guidance. Consistency is key to helping children with ADHD manage their symptoms.

• Give praise or rewards when rules or directions are well followed. Children with ADHD often receive and expect criticism. Look for good behavior to recognize and praise.

• Join a training for parents/caregivers to learn skills for managing difficult behaviors in children.

• Work closely with the child’s teachers and school guidance counselors to ensure everyone knows how to best support the child.

How KVC Missouri Can Help

KVC Missouri provides the most comprehensive continuum of child and family services across the state, including family strengthening services, foster care case management, foster parent training and licensing,  community-based and residential children’s mental health treatment, K-12 therapeutic education, therapeutic adventure and wilderness programs and more. With regional campuses in St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Columbia and St. James, our 800+ team members bring innovative quality care models, clinical expertise, exceptional outcomes and groundbreaking work in trauma-informed care. Our broad continuum of care means that children can access mental health services from the least intensive, community-based care to the most intensive, residential treatment programs, receiving an individualized care plan from highly skilled behavioral health professionals.

If you’re concerned that a child in your care is struggling with ADHD or other mental health needs, call us now at 1-844-424-3577 to find out about services near you.

Here are some KVC Missouri resources to help you understand and cope with ADHD:  

• Download a free guide about the 5 things every child needs for good mental health
• Read this blog to learn what to expect when admitting a child for residential mental health treatment
• Find out how adventure and wilderness programs can help a child overcome mental health challenges and experience personal growth

Here’s a list of additional resources you can contact for help:

• Access free resources and education from the Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organization at chadd.org
• Call the child’s primary care physician or your local community mental health center
• Text HOME to 741741 for 24/7 support from the Crisis Text Line
• Call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 800-950-6264 or visit their website at nami.org
• Learn more about ADHD from the Child Mind Institute