A Mother/Son Perspective ADHD and Engaged Learning

1. A Mother/Son PerspectiveADHD and Engaged Learning Peter Heinisch And Mary Kay Morrison mkmorris@kidsroe.org

2. Overview of Session This is a unique perspective on ADHD given by a mother/son team as they look at the challenges and opportunities of living with these special needs learners. Current brain research will be reviewed and the characteristics of attentional issues will be analyzed from several perspectives. Stories will be shared by both mother and son to illustrate the frustrations of living with attentional issues. Numerous strategies for accommodation planning will be given. The special gifts of these students will be the focus, because we believe that utilization of student strengths begins the journey to academic success. Both mother and son are teachers and are committed to supporting others in the quest of maximizing the joyful experiences of living and learning with these energetic, creative and adventuresome children.

3. Goals for Today • Define ADD, ADHD • Review Brain Research • Discuss Characteristics of ADD • Review Academic Challenges • Focus on Educational Strategies • Review and Reflect

4. Definition of ADDDSM-IV Criteria Each Child is different: in intensitiy of ADD and in abilities Defined: 6 different conditions (Daniel Amen; MD) • Classic ADD with primary conditions • Distractibility • Disorganization • Hyperactivity • Restlessness-fidgets • Impulsivity • Inattentive ADD– primary + low energy & motivation • Over focused ADD- primary + cognitive inflexibility & difficulty shifting attention • Temporal Lobe ADD- primary + short fuse, anxiety,& memory problems • Limbic ADD- primary + mild sadness, irritability, & social isolation • Ring of Fire ADD- primary + extreme moodiness, anger, & excessive talking

5. What do we know from Brain Research about ADD? • The brain is extremely complex. • Experts disagree on interpretations of brain scans and research. • It can be seen in brain scans. • Every brain is different. • There is no known cause for ADD symptoms. • ADD is not outgrown. Is it a gift or a disorder?

6. A Different Perspective...Gift or Disorder? • Adapted from Thom Hartmann • Farmer • Distractibility • Disorganization • Hyperactivity • Restlessness-fidgets • Impulsivity • Hunter • Risk Taker • Abundant Energy • Global Thinker • Creative

7. ADHD is Complex • The diagnosis and treatment of ADHD is complex. • Medication can be helpful but the current approach is often done by trail and error. • Multiple treatment options include: • Accommodations – change environment (504 plan) • Behavior Modification - influence child behavior • Medications/ nutrition (stimulants, fish oil, caffeine) Research is inclusive as to best treatment options

8. Common Academic Challenges Reading Spelling Writing Organization Auditory Processing

9. WHAT DO ADD STUDENTS NEED? • positive caring relationships • organization and structure • novel and engaging curriculum • accommodations & technology

10. Low Expectations Saw me as inadequate Embarrassed me Irrelevant assignments Didn’t care about me Distant NO FUN! High Expectations Encouraged my gifts Quiet Suggestions Great assignments Cared about me Personal FUN!! Comparison of Teachers 1. Positive Caring Relationships

11. 2. Organization and Structure • Coordinate frequent communication between teacher and parent. Focus on the positive! • Have two sets of books. (one at home) • Use agenda/calendars. • Write down everything, (including meetings, homework and social activities) in one planner. • Use silent messages; physical or visual signals.

12. 3. Novel and Engaging • Auditory mode is most affected. Lecture loses them! • Change of pace every 10-15 minutes. • Engaged Learning! Engage the emotions! • Have Fun! A Partnership PARENT, CHILD & SCHOOL INCLUDE THE STUDENT!

13. What works for the ADD child works for all children! 4. Accommodations Use a Multi Modal Approach Establish Clear Rituals and Routines Focus on Strengths Use Visual and Non-Verbal Cues Eye contact Reduce Stress and Distractions Redirect Behavior-Avoid Threats Incorporate Movement Teach Organizational Skills/ Time Management Develop Memory Strategies (mnemonics, repetition) Use Technology

14. Parent Goals • Help the student to understand their gifts, challenges and their diagnosis. • Encourage the student to figure out what would be most helpful for their learning (accommodations, diet, medications) • Encourage student to advocate for themselves.

15. Questions? • What it is like to grow up with an ADHD diagnosis! • Relief • Teasing • Misunderstandings • What is life like as an Adult?

16. Summary of Strategies • Review handouts • Write down on index card- 2 things learned • Share with a partner • Share with the group

17. A Few Resources WEB SITES • CHADDhttp://www.chadd.org • National Resource Center on ADHD http://www.help4adhd.org/index.cfm • National Institutes of Health: www.nih.gov • Articles by Thom Hartman http://www.thomasarmstrong.com/articles.htm BOOKS “A New View of AD/HD” by Eric Jensen “Attention Deficit Disorder; A Different Perception” by Thom Hartmann “Healing ADD” by Daniel Amen Never Give Up on Finding Resources

18. Reflections Focus on the Strengths of the ADHD Student Work as a Team! Celebrate Success!

19. That's All Folks!