AboutSijka Expertise I was diagnosed (finally) with A.D.D.at the age of 38. I always knew there was something not connecting in my brain, but little was known when I was growing up about A.D.D.
I know how hard it is to explain to others about your "brain patterns" and habits.
I know how hard it is to keep things in order and to find those "IMPORTANT" papers you know you just had in your hands and now they are missing--right into thin air. I've been there and am still there!
Experience I studied, attended seminars with the experts, worked with psychologists and doctors to become the only "informed teacher" in a school district.I worked with teachers and parents to understand the mind patterning and the options of medication and behavioral patterning.
I also have worked with adults on pstructuring their lives to assist in development of routine organization (I must admit that I am a lot better with others than myself!!)
I am "pro" medication-but NOT the generic. For adults there are several meds that can be used and combinations that work well.
I have been away from working with children for 12 years but am able to come up with strategies and resources for you. .
Organizations
Publications "Cooperative Learning" (johnson and Johnson Method) in Exceptional Children in early 80's.
Did research on "hooked-On-Phonics" before "they" had any themselves!
Education/Credentials I have a Bachelors in Speech Path and Audiology
A Masters in Educational Psychology and Counseling.
I taught a total of 27 years-regular ed., spec. ed., administration, consultant and advocate for children and adults with ADD.
Awards and Honors I am still optimistic that one day I WILL BE ORGANIZED!!
Expert: Sijka Date: 7/1/2008 Subject: HELP with my son ADHD or not?
Question Hi there my son is 5 years old and ever since he was a toddler he has been so hyperactive sometimes he doesnot sleep at all and no matter what i do he never seems tired out. Since starting school i have noticed no improvement(i was reassured by my gp i would)I also have what i call "stages" with him where he can be the ideal child for a week or so before he turns into well the devil child.His behaviour is sometimes uncontrollable and i know that people must be thinking he is a spoilt child but really he is not. He has so much strength he actually ripped doors off of hinges in sheer frustraition because i would not let him have what he wanted. I have taken all e numbers colorings sugar etc out of his diet but it made no improvement to him at all. His teacher says he is on the spectrum for aspergers/adhd what do u think and also if he is how do i go about getting him diagnosed thankyou so much for your help.
Answer Kelly,
First I would talk to the school's psychologist and get their opinion of your son's behavior after observing him. Then ask if there is a Child Specialist/Psychologist/Psychiatrist that they might recommend. If they are unable to recommend one, start calling Child Psychologists and Child Psychiatrists and ask them if they specialize in children with ADD/ADHD/Aspberger's Syndrome. It may not be any of the preceeding. A thorough examination and psychological testing will help to narrow down the field.
It is imperative that your son have a daily routine that is very structured. Changes and spontaneous activities are very detrimental to their overall behavior. He must know what is coming next, know what the expectations are and what the consequences will be. This is really tricky. Both home and school should be doing the very same things so that his day is smooth and transitions are made easy.
And PLEASE don't be afraid of medication....it will not make them drug addicts in the future. Medication "allows" them to have a clearer mind so that they CAN learn how to act and how to interact.
Please feel free to ask more of me.
Here are a few good websites with good information:
