Commented by Kay Kaloupek Marner, Wed Nov 25, 2009 4:18pm UTC

This video is an excellent introduction to ADHD; ADHD 101, if you will. But, if your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, you’ll want to move on to higher level coursework! Topics you can expect to encounter as you educate yourself about ADHD include:
1) Medication—Yes, ADHD is highly treatable, but finding the best medication for your child is not always easy. It may take some trial and error. And, sometimes a particular medication will work well for a period of time, then changes need to be made, either in dosage, or to a different medication altogether. Be prepared to become chummy with your pediatrician, pharmacist, librarian, and web browser as these changes occur!
2) Co-existing conditions--Many children diagnosed with ADHD have co-existing conditions, such as learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, OCD, and others. If you or your child’s teacher suspect there’s more going on than ADHD, don’t hesitate to seek out a psychological evaluation. An evaluation does more than assign “labels” to your child. It forms a roadmap for treatment.
3) Advocacy—It’s time to brush up on your diplomacy skills, your assertiveness, and to become a lay-expert in disabilities law! ADHD often impacts a child’s school performance and/or behavior at school. In fact, early elementary school teachers are sometimes the first to alert parents to the likelihood that a child has ADHD. Learn about IEP’s, 504 plans, and IDEA in order to advocate for your child at school.
4) Finally, don’t forget about yourself! Don’t minimize the stress and exhaustion that parenting a child with ADHD can entail. Find support for yourself—through online communities, ADHD support groups, or a therapist. Carve out alone time and time with supportive people.
To learn more, check out ADDitude magazine, ADDitudeMag.com, and CHADD (Children and Adults with AD/HD).