Recent studies support the notion that many children with ADD/ADHD have impairments in cognitive skills, especially working memory. Working memory is the cognitive system responsible for the temporary storage and manipulation of information. Working memory is necessary when staying focused on a task and blocking out distractions. ADHD is diagnosed two to four times more frequently in boys than in girls.
At Confidence College in Pretoria principal Anelize van Eeden is faced daily with many learners that display ADHD behaviours. "It's much too easy to pin a child's behaviour on a specific condition such as ADD or ADHD when they don't want to sit still, listen or concentrate. ADD/ADHD behaviours and symptoms can definitely be reduced with the correct inputs from the school and parents," says Van Eeden.
Van Eeden believes that regular teacher and parent contact is critical to discuss the behaviours and possible solutions. A child's diet is very important too as a healthy diet plays a key role in how a child behaves. Before labelling a child as having ADD/ADHD, test the child's hearing and vision as impaired hearing or vision could also impact their behaviour.
"We try to curb the ADD/ADHD-type behaviours by keeping the classes exciting. Learners can't be expected to sit still for long periods of time so we bring in different activities and stimuli during their classes. It is important to provide the learners with structure in the classes and to enforce limits and boundaries through reminders and repetition. Praise and approval also play an important role when instilling positive behaviours.
"We are very fortunate to have the assistance of Susan du Plessis from Edublox, who freely gives of her time once a week to help learners who display ADD/ADHD-type behaviours. We have seen a great improvement in their demeanour and attitude towards school and learning. Teachers have indicated that they have seen a vast improvement in the learners' comprehension tests and the concentration of the children has definitely improved," Van Eeden notes.
