Therapy Sessions for Children with ADD/ADHD: Customized Approaches and Developmental Milestones
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can present significant challenges for children in various aspects of life, including social behavior, academic performance, and daily routines. Proper therapeutic intervention is crucial to help these children navigate their unique developmental hurdles. This article explores the differences in therapy sessions for children aged 3-6 and 7-12, focusing on customized approaches and developmental milestones.
Understanding the Differences in Therapy Sessions
The purpose of these therapy sessions is not only to address immediate behavioral and developmental issues but also to foster a supportive and structured environment for long-term growth. This is particularly important for children in the age groups of 3-6 and 7-12, as their developmental needs vary significantly during these periods.
My work with these children revolves around recognizing and encouraging new developmental steps. Each session begins with an assessment to identify any signals of progress in developmental stages. These assessments help in tailoring the therapy sessions to meet the individual needs of each child. For instance, in children aged 3-6, the focus is often on basic motor skills, language development, and social interaction.
Focused Assessment and Practice
The ‘work’ of my sessions is primarily about measuring and improving brain circuit progress. This includes activities that enhance timing precision and focus. Unlike traditional talk therapy, my sessions are more focused on practical exercises rather than extended discussions. We perform various tests and then engage in practice exercises to stimulate the developmental process and move it forward. For younger children (3-6), the exercises are more playful and sensory-based, while for older children (7-12), the activities become more structured and complex.
Teaching Appropriate Social Behavior
Teaching appropriate social behavior is a critical component of therapy sessions. This is done in the same way as teaching mathematical or linguistic skills to the appropriate age group. The goal is to instill a sense of social awareness and interaction that can translate into better social skills. This is not a one-size-fits-all approach; some children may respond well to medication alone, while others may require ongoing therapeutic support.
Medication and School Integration
Ages 3-6 are typically not medicated unless the child demonstrates extreme behaviors that pose a danger to themselves or others. In such cases, the use of medication can help manage symptoms and prevent accidents or dangerous behaviors. For example, my 2 1/2-year-old daughter required medication after attempting to climb out of a second-floor window, and my 5-year-old son required medication after driving our Suburban into a tree. It is important to note that parents should consult with a pediatrician or a child psychiatrist to determine the best course of action.
I believe that children with ADHD should be treated both with appropriate medication and in schools that specialize in dealing with oppositional-defiant children. However, as a therapist, I advocate for a comprehensive approach that includes both medical treatment and therapeutic support. Play and talk therapy are meant to provide emotional support to both the child and the parents in dealing with the challenges that arise. It is a difficult task, and the rewards of this support can take 10 to 20 years to unfold, emphasizing the need for extreme patience and consistent effort.
In conclusion, therapy sessions for children with ADD and ADHD are tailored to meet the unique developmental needs of each individual. By focusing on practical exercises and fostering appropriate social behavior, therapists can help these children navigate their challenges and build a foundation for long-term success. Parents and therapists must work together to provide the best possible support and ensure that children can achieve their full potential.