How did you know that your four year old daughter had adhd?

[Anonymous]

Have you had an evaluation with an occupation therapist?
They may be able to provide some suggestions.

Also, diet could be a factor, like sensitivities to wheat, dairy, etc may not manifest in the form of an allergic reaction, but in these types of behaviors, or may be making them worse.

My son is now 12, was diagnosed ADHD at 7, and exhibiting similar behaviors to those described. I have found that consequences for behaviors we don't want and modifying diet were very helpful.

OT helped give suggestions for school, like he was always tilting his chair back so he had an exercise ball to sit on, being allowed to chew gum so he wouldn't tap on his desk, being allowed to stand up at the back of the class room instead of having to sit still, which required too much concentration to do and he would miss out on the classroom instruction.

Best wishes!

[Anonymous]

My DD is five, but I'm pretty sure she'll eventually have a diagnosis of ADHD. Her preschool complained for two years running that she wouldn't sit still for circle, she hovered at the periphery playing with toys. She hears all, though, and learned what they were teaching. Based on a number of things and her preschool's recommendation, we took her to be evaluated by the school system when she was just 4 - and they found her not to be behind academically.

We took her to the developmental clinic that followed her after her discharge from NICU, where they found significant fine motor delays and low muscle tone. Since they don't provide services (and therefore have no financial incentive to find a problem...) we thought they were a good objective read on her skills.

We started Occupational Therapy exactly a year ago and the difference between last year and this year is amazing. She now sits (reasonably) still for circle. She tantrums less often when we leave her preferred activities. She will actually sit still and color - and seems to enjoy it! - whereas last year you couldn't get her to do that at all. She gets together with other kids during her sessions and works on taking turns and playing games. I'm not sure what is that she is one year older and what came from OT, but we are thrilled with her progress.

So, if you're wondering, follow a number of PP's advice and mine and look into OT!