Is your child also looking out the window, lost in a dream world? It's normal for young children to daydream and think like that. But if your child has trouble staying focused on one thing all the time, or if they're constantly skipping schoolwork and homework, it could be a type of condition called ADHD ( attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). That's what we're talking about today.
How is this 'Inattentive' type of ADHD different from other types?
When most people think of ADHD, they think of a child who can't sit still, is very naughty, and is always running around. But that's only one type of ADHD. To be precise, there are three main types of ADHD.
1. Inattentive Type: In this type we are talking about today, the main problem the child has is difficulty maintaining attention. These children are often quiet and less playful. Because of this, it may be late to recognize that this condition exists. In the past, this was called 'Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).'
2. Hyperactive -Impulsive Type: This is the 'naughty' child we all know. It's like a motor running on high. They're always making noises with their feet or hands, they don't stop talking, and they do things all at once without thinking.
3. Combined Type: In this type, both of the above characteristics are seen together. That is, there is both inattention and hyperactivity.
The important thing is that we often see these inattentive children as "lazy," "irresponsible," or "arrogant." But that's not their fault, it's a condition caused by a change in brain function.
How does a doctor determine if this condition exists?
If you suspect your child has this condition, you should definitely refer them to a pediatrician or psychiatrist . They will take information from you, the child, and the child's teachers to diagnose the condition.
Typically, a doctor will diagnose this condition by looking at whether the child has been exhibiting at least six of the following symptoms for more than 6 months .
| Symptom | What does this mean? |
|---|---|
| Daydreaming and being easily distracted | While doing homework in class or at home, you suddenly find yourself in another world. Even the slightest noise can distract you. |
| Omitting important information, making careless mistakes | I often make silly mistakes in homework and exam papers. I don't listen to important parts of the instructions. |
| Bored easily, difficulty concentrating | Even if you start a task, it gets boring after a while. It's hard to keep your mind on something like reading a book or drawing a picture all the time. |
| Difficulty working in an orderly manner | I can't find my homework paper, my book bag is messy, my room is full of stuff. I don't know how to do my homework step by step. |
| Not listening when spoken to | Even if you speak directly to the child and he looks at you, he doesn't seem to be listening. |
| Avoiding tasks that require a lot of attention | They don't like tasks that require concentration, like doing homework or studying for exams, and they put them off. |
| Losing things often | Things like pens, pencils, books, and water bottles that we bring to school are often lost. |
| Forgetfulness in daily tasks | You forget the little things you said (e.g., "Bring that book when you go to your room"). |
| Difficulty following instructions, not completing tasks | Once you start a task, you start another one before you finish it. It's hard to follow a set of instructions. |
Adults can also be diagnosed with this condition. They must have at least five of these symptoms.
Your doctor may also suggest tests to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. For example:
- Hearing or vision impairments
- Learning Disabilities
- Mental conditions such as anxiety or depression
How can we help a child like this?
If a doctor diagnoses your child with this condition, don't panic. There are many ways to help. Treatment usually involves a combination of several methods, rather than just one.
Medical treatment
The doctor may prescribe medication to improve the child's attention. Behavior therapy and counseling are also very important. In some cases, the doctor may even suggest special devices, such as the newly introduced ``Monarch external Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation (eTNS) System)``. These stimulate parts of the brain believed to be related to ADHD. But all of this is decided by your doctor.
Things we can do as parents
Behavioral therapy also teaches parents a lot about how to work with their child.
| Helpful method | Things you can do |
|---|---|
| Making a 'To-Do' List | Make a list of things to do (housework, cleaning the room) and post it somewhere your child can see it (on the fridge, on the child's desk). |
| Breaking big tasks into small pieces | Instead of saying "Go and do your homework" all at once, break it down into small steps like "First do some math. Then read a chapter in a Sinhala book. Finally, write a short note about it." |
| Giving clear, simple advice | When giving advice, don't say too many things at once, but say them simply, briefly, one at a time. |
| Having everything in order. | Create specific places to put all of your child's clothes, books, and toys. That way, they'll be easy to find. |
| Creating a daily routine | For children like this, having a routine can help them stay focused. Get into the habit of doing things at the same time every day (waking up, brushing teeth, eating). Write this routine down and post it somewhere you can see it at home. |
| Reducing distractions | When your child is studying, be sure to turn off things like the TV, computer, radio, and phone. If in class, if possible, ask the teacher to move the child away from the window or door and have them sit in the front. |
| Rewards for good work | Everyone likes to be praised for a good job. When they finish their homework on time, or tidy up their room, praise them with, "That's great, son/daughter." Maybe give them a small gift (a favorite food, a trip to the zoo). |
Since your child will be at school most of the day, you should definitely stay in touch with your child's class teacher. Keep them informed about your child's situation and work together to find ways to help your child. If necessary, you can also talk to the principal and get the child the accommodations they need (e.g., more time for exams).
Take-Home Message
- ADHD is not a child's laziness or bad behavior. It is a medically recognized condition.
- If your child has these symptoms, don't just assume, but definitely see a doctor.
- Treatment is not just about medication. The best results are achieved when everything comes together: medication, behavioral therapy, and support from parents and teachers.
- With the right treatment, help, and support, these children can achieve their goals and be successful. They deserve your love, patience, and understanding.
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