Kids often have trouble sitting still, paying attention and remembering directions. If this inability to pay attention interferes with school, it might be due to Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD for short).

Kids with ADHD often have a terrible time with homework and class work. They have trouble concentrating and finishing things. They get bored quickly and it’s hard to stick with things that are not very interesting to them.

Children with ADHD sometimes have a harder time controlling themselves. They just can’t wait. They may act without thinking about what will happen later –- then they are sorry.

How does ADHD happen? Kids with ADHD have a great brain. It’s just that the parts that help with attention and controlling themselves and sitting still are not working so well. But, most of the brain of a kid with ADHD is working fine and is very healthy, just like everyone else.

Children with ADHD can learn, pay attention and control themselves. However, they may have to work harder and may have to use some special ways to help themselves do those things.

There are certain medications that sometimes help kids with ADHD. These medications can help kids stay calm, remember things, and keep their minds on what they are doing.

The medicine doesn’t make them do things but lets them do things they’d like to do, for example, pay attention, get their work done and control themselves better.

Almost all medications have side effects. These are things that happen that nobody likes about the medication. With the usual medication for ADHD, the main side effects are that you may not be as sleepy or hungry. Not all children have these side effects, but if they do, they often go away after about two weeks.

If you feel funny or weird or different, you need to let your parent or teacher know. All medication has to be taken special ways at certain times. So, it will be important to follow the doctor’s directions.

In order to get the help you need, you will work as part of a team with your doctor, the school and your parents. You are a unique and very special person. There is plenty you can do to help yourself and your team will work with you to find what works best for you.
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