Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Most children are impulsive and have high activity levels however, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition whereby these behaviours go beyond that which would normally be expected.

Whilst elements of ADHD will begin to be apparent from an early age, our experience is that it tends to not be diagnosed until a child starts school and the child struggles with concentration beyond their peers. ADHD is roughly seven times more common in boys than in girls.

ADHD means that a child presents with, in many settings, attention deficit (an inability to concentrate or follow instructions), hyperactivity (high levels of movement and fidgeting) and impulsivity (struggling with taking turns in games and social boundaries).

We have worked with numerous children with ADHD. The impact of this difficulty can vary dramatically between children but in all cases results in special educational needs (SEN). In particular, medication and therapies such as talking therapy can significantly cater for the needs. In some cases, SEN additional support may be adequate, whereas in others an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) will be necessary. Careful assessment of the impact of the child’s needs is required to establish the necessary level of support and special educational needs advice should be sought.