Nonpharmacological Considerations for Managing ADHD

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Nonpharmacological Considerations
for Managing ADHD
www.cbstherapy.com
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Nonpharmacological Interventions for Childhood
ADHD
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
is one of the most prevalent disorders of
childhood. The CDC estimates that between 3 and
7 of school-aged children have ADHD.
Characterized by inattention, impulsivity and/or
hyperactivity, ADHD impacts many areas of a
childs life. This includes social participation
with peers and relationships with adults,
academics, executive functioning skills like
organization and time management, and more.
Pediatricians may recommend medication and/or a
variety of non-pharmaceutical interventions.
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The use of a written or visual routine
This intervention involves using behavioral
strategies in everyday routines to provide
structure, reward positive behavior, and
communicate expectations.
A token system.
The use of a written or visual routine.
Use of a communication app between home and
school.
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Environmental Modifications
Children with ADHD are more likely than their
peers to be overresponsive to sensory input
thus, the classroom can be more difficult for
them to navigate.
Providing access to noise-canceling headphones
Removing distracting classroom decorations
Providing scheduled heavy work motor breaks
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Also known as CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy
involves self-management that results in behavior
modification. The process involves identifying
and challenging problematic thoughts and
behaviors and replacing them with practical
actions. A child may learn and practice
problem-solving, role-playing, and the ability to
redirect, instruct and guide themselves.
Strategies take into account the childs
strengths and goals.
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Sensory Integration
Sensory integration is a specific intervention
approach used by occupational therapists. This
sensory-rich therapy allows children to process
and integrate different kinds of sensory input in
a controlled environment. Therapists look for
adaptive responses such as decreased impulsivity
or the ability to tolerate increased volume
without having a meltdown. The ultimate goal is
that eventually, changed neurology results in
more consistent appropriate responses to sensory
stimulation.
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Activity Modifications
For the child with ADHD, a multi-step activity
can become overwhelming and result in behaviors
or withdrawal. Breaking down large tasks into
manageable chunks can allow the child to
experience success. Reduce the size of homework
or the amount of written material on handouts.
Focusing on quality rather than quantity can
enable these children to showcase their best
work.
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Team Collaboration
When a childs disability impacts their
participation at school, the childs team may
adopt an IEP or 504 plan. Children benefit from
interdisciplinary collaboration, and the team may
consist of the parents or caregivers, the childs
physician, special education teacher, regular
education teacher, social worker, counselor, or
occupational therapist. Since ADHD impacts
multiple areas of functioning, each profession
can contribute its specialty. For example, the
physician can help team members understand side
effects, and the occupational therapist can
suggest sensory strategies. The child, family,
and team all benefit from collaboration.
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Contact Information