ADHD in the classroom

Hey, Dr. Oz, my child's school has mentioned he's showing signs of ADHD.

What does that look like in school? And how can they tell?

ADHD often reveals itself first at school. It is common for children to develop signs of ADHD

around four to 18 years of age. And because of the work expected of them as students, teachers can sometimes notice before parents.

While inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity are qualities any child can display depending on the circumstances, children who

displayed them more often than others may be showing symptoms of ADHD. When a child exhibits these signs of ADHD,

it's important to get in touch with teachers, administrators, and your child's physician to examine the situation.

Sometimes other conditions, like emotional or behavioral disorders or learning disabilities, can make a child appear to have ADHD.

Professionals at your child's school will investigate to figure out the best path forward for education. Children with ADHD may have trouble listening or focusing

for long stretches of time. They may have trouble organizing their work and may often be forgetful. Children with ADHD may often fidget or leave their seat

at inappropriate times, like when the teacher is providing instructions. Children with ADHD may frequently interrupt others

or blurt out answers and may sometimes be unable to participate in activities quietly. ADHD can have a negative effect on all aspects

of a child's ability to learn. ADHD in children can be treated in a variety of ways. Parent training and behavior management

is often available for very young children. Around the age of six, FDA-approved medications are available for use in managing ADHD.

School treatment plans, like individualized education programs, or IEPs, are encouraged. Behavioral intervention training is also

available to teachers of students with ADHD. School is often one of the first places where ADHD traits are displayed by children.

This is normal, and with a plan in place involving teachers, parents, and medical professionals, ADHD can be managed both at school and at home.