Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is one of the most prevalent childhood conditions. According to the American Counseling Association, ADD may affect between five and ten percent of our nation's children. Children with ADD can experience developmental, academic, social, and family problems. It is a complex disorder that involves the neurotransmitters in the brain. The necessary amounts of neurological chemicals which act as triggers, transmitters, and receptors are not present in the brain of an ADD child. Thus, the child is not fully aware of his/her problem or fully prepared to master many of life's tasks. Except for cases of moderate and severe Attentiion Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), diagnosing this condition can be difficult. The core components of ADD are inappropriate degrees of inattention, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity.

A disturbance of at least six months during which at least eight of the following are present:

1. often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
2. has difficulty remaining seated when required to do so
3. is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
4. has difficulty awaiting turn in games or group situations
5. often blurts out answers to questions before they have been completed
6. has difficulty following through on instructions from others
7. has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
8. often shifts from one uncompleted activity to another
9. has difficulty playing quietly
10. often talks excessively
11. often interrupt or intrudes on others
12. often does not seem to listen to what is being said to him or her
13. often loses things necessary for tasks or activities at school or at home
14. often engages in physically dangerous activities without considering possible consequences
    

Herrick Middle School

O'Neill Middle School

Julie Quinlan, 8th Grade

Pam Burkle, 8th Grade

Steve Gross, 7th Grade

Barry Kincaid 7th Grade