Expert: Norm Bishop - 2/26/2008

Question
I am confused about my child.  She in in 3rd grade and are showing signs of ADD, but not all.  Is there a discipline that I can take in helping her to stay focused in the classroom and at home?  Or is it truely ADD?  I am in the progress of haveing her evaluated now.  I would just like to have other's opinions that have ADD children.  Thank you.

Answer
Few ADD children display all of the symptoms that are connected to the disorder, each is unique, as you are discovering.  The evaluation will determine the degree of her ADD and may help point you in a direction to help.  

As far as discipline goes, ADD or not, ALL children need to learn that they have limits and expectations.  You need to discipline her as you see necessary, but make sure that it isn't harsh, rather, understanding that she can't always control her choices, but even without control will meet consequences.  Your structure will help her tremendously, as will your empahty for the disorder, but not as an enabler excusing all her behavior because her brain works differently.  

There are some EXCELLENT resources for parents at the following website.  http://www.ldonline.com