Today there is an increase of awareness of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, consequently this has led to a better understanding for children and adults who once were considered a family or social problem.

As previously discussed, ADHD children generally have a hard time coping with schooling or adults who have a hard time sticking with a particular job. However, society has grown to understand that such individuals are dealing with serious problems that stem from the condition of ADHD than can be treated. Although, the majority of society does not understand what causes Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. What they do understand is that ADHD is a very complicated condition, which stems from many different elements.

It is important to discuss what does not cause ADHD, before discussing what does cause such a condition. A multitude of unrelated ADHD myths abounds and confuses many people as to its origins. Here you will find a list of disputed assumptions considered by research.

1. Diet - This assumption dates back to the 70's as it was considered that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is caused by sensitivity or allergy to certain types of food, for the most part baby food. Although, no research in decades past proves this claim to be a cause of ADHD. The rumor that increased intake of foods like sugar tends to make children impulsive and hyperactive has been reinforced by the media. No relation between the intake of sugar and the behavior of children and their learning patterns has been established by clinical research.

2. Hormonal Imbalance - Although hormones do influence the moods and behaviors of an individual, hormonal imbalance does not cause ADHD. Keep in mind that there has not been any substantial connection between an ADHD episode and hormone levels. Hormones may be at play while causing individuals to be out of focus or impulsive at various times but they do not cause ADHD and its many other symptoms.

3. Vestibular or Balance Problems - Research of the past has determined that learning and behavioral problems stem from the vestibular system of the brain, which controls a proper balance. The proposed treatment at that time for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder was that of motion sickness. However, over the years of research has not proven the relationship of the vestibular system and ADHD. There has been no link found between the two.

4. Family Life and Parenting - Many individuals attribute poor parenting or family problems as the cause of the disorder, since the symptoms Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder involve behavioral problems. However, the parents have not raised these ADHD children poorly not do they come from ADHD dysfunctional families. For instance, an ADHD child is not encouraged by its parents to misbehave at school and not sit still. Rather their behavior can still be hard to manage even when receiving the proper disciple from their parents and perhaps even more, but since their problem also has neurological components.

5. Excessive Television Viewing - Popularly seen as a cause for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is television. Although research has shown that viewing violence on television can increase aggression in children may be comparable to the hyperactivity and impulsiveness in patients of ADHD, however such behavior is not synonymous to ADHD. In reality, research has proven that the amount of time-spent viewing a television show is not different from that of children of the same age group.

People can now focus on the more plausible causes of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, since these other factors play no part in causing ADHD. Research shows that the majority of the factors are found in prenatal, genetic and neurological factors. Knowing what does not cause, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder helps many individuals to understand what really causes the condition. Studies still have not determined a specific origin of ADHD. Nevertheless, with more research, the mystery of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD may soon surface.

 

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often have difficulty sitting still and concentrating. They feel the urge to move around continually. Everyday items such as a ticking clock, the movement of the rustling leaves, the wind outside, and the dripping of a leaky faucet are enough to distract attention from homework.

Parents can help an ADHD child complete homework without resorting to yelling and threatening punishment. Understanding the thought and behavior pattern differences in their child equips parents to help a young one complete homework in a reasonable timeframe and retain a greater level of knowledge.

Not all ADHD children are alike. Some have minimal hyperactivity symptoms; others may focus well, but have difficulty controlling their moods and physical actions. A different approach treats each type of behavior.

Homework Tips for Kids with Attention Deficit Problems

* Remove Obvious Distractions: Turn off the television and radio, remove siblings from the room and close the blinds before beginning homework.

* Use an Egg Timer: An egg timer provides continuous visual cues to help the child pace progress and stay on task.

* Verbal Cues: If you catch your child daydreaming or fidgeting with school supplies, gently remind them to return to the task of completing their homework.

* Break Down Large Assignments: Large assignments can be overwhelming to a child with attention deficit disorder. Parents should break these large assignments into smaller, manageable chunks. This also helps create an ongoing sense of accomplishment as the child completes each portion.

* Use White Noise: White noise, such as the humming of a fan, helps an ADHD child concentrate.

* Write It Down: ADHD children often forget homework assignments seconds after being told the tasks. Purchase an agenda book or school planner to track homework assignments. Teach your child to use it daily.

* Keep a Schedule: Routine schedules make a big difference in children with ADHD. Setting a time for homework every day allows the child to prepare for the activity. Be sure to select a period when your child's concentration levels are the greatest.

Homework Tips for Kids with Hyperactivity Disorder

* Frequent Breaks: Allow the child to take a break at set intervals during homework time. This relieves the desire to move around, fostering greater concentration.

* Burn off Excess Energy: Allow the child a few minutes of free time, preferable outdoors and prior to the homework session. Transition to homework time by slowly decreasing physical activity until the child is able to sit still to work on assignments.

* Use Index Cards: Write out spelling words, memorization items, or key facts on index cards that the child can flip through while standing or walking around the room.

* Try Standing Up: Use a podium for completing homework instead of a desk and chair. This may allow the child to expend small amounts of physical energy while allowing him to complete homework in a timely manner.

When helping an ADHD child complete homework, be sure to give frequent words of praise for each small accomplishment. Patience, encouragement, and understanding are necessary in dealing with these extraordinary children.