A mother cares deeply about her child's health, including their physical, mental, and cognitive abilities. She wants her child to grow up healthy and free from diseases, as well as from behavioral disorders that have become widely discussed in recent years, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, the causes of ADHD are still not fully understood, and there is no definitive treatment.
Mothers must follow specific advice to reduce their child's risk of developing ADHD. They also need to recognize the symptoms of ADHD and distinguish them from those of other conditions. To shed light on the matter, nadormagazine and Your Child interviewed Dr. Ahmed Al-Nadi, a pediatric neurologist, who discussed the difference between speech problems and the potential for hyperactivity, the signs of each, the concerns they may raise, and how to handle them.
What is ADHD?
ADHD in children is a condition marked by behavioral, motor, and skill instability that appears during a time when children are usually more stable. A child with ADHD often exhibits excessive energy or hyperactivity, making it difficult for them to focus on tasks. This disorder has various causes, including factors related to pregnancy, genetics, and the mother's health. ADHD is not typically caused by the child's environment, which can make it challenging to treat. Studies show that children who are born prematurely are at a higher risk of developing ADHD than those born after a full-term pregnancy.
How to Tell the Difference Between Speech Issues and Hyperactivity?
When your child reaches around two years old, observe their speech patterns. Normally, a child should be able to speak in complete sentences, even if short ones. However, a child with ADHD might speak in a much slower and more monotonous way. Some mothers might mistakenly think their child has speech difficulties, but the reality is that a slow, repetitive speech pattern—where the child speaks quietly and leans in close to others—can be a sign of ADHD.
Unusual Signs That May Indicate ADHD
Failure to respond to their name: A child under 12 months who does not respond when called by name may show early signs of ADHD.
Avoiding eye contact: If your baby avoids eye contact, it could be a sign of ADHD.
Preferring solitary play: A child with ADHD may prefer playing alone and might engage in self-harming behaviors or repeat certain phrases when alone.
Slow to smile or laugh: Children with ADHD often have facial expressions that do not match the situations they experience.
Frequent tantrums: ADHD children may have many sudden, unjustified tantrums and difficulty expressing their emotions properly.
Tips for Dealing with a Hyperactive Child
Patience and understanding: Be patient and avoid being harsh, especially when your child is stubborn. Stubbornness is common in children with ADHD, who may also display aggression because they feel frustrated in their attempts to get what they want.
Add parsley to your child's diet: Parsley contains amphetamines, which are used in medications for ADHD. When consumed, the liver converts this into a substance called "myristicin." Fresh parsley can be added to salads, drinks, or even dried and used in everyday dishes like pasta or stuffed foods.
Teach relaxation techniques: Since children with ADHD struggle with staying still, start by teaching them to relax for short periods, gradually increasing the time until they can manage for about 15 minutes.
Offer rewards: Give your child a reward of their choosing for managing to control themselves in specific situations. This can help encourage self-regulation.
Avoid caffeinated drinks: Caffeine can exacerbate hyperactivity, so replace coffee, tea, and energy drinks with herbal teas.
Provide mood-boosting foods: Offer nuts, which are rich in happiness hormones, and reduce the use of processed foods, sauces, and canned goods.
Ensure adequate Vitamin C: Low levels of Vitamin C have been linked to increased ADHD symptoms, so make sure your child receives enough, as prescribed by a doctor.
Engage with educational games: Look for games that help your child improve their reaction control. Consult a specialist who can guide you in finding the best tools to help manage ADHD symptoms.
By taking these steps, mothers can better manage ADHD symptoms and help their child develop in a supportive and healthy environment.
Post a Comment