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Like it or not, one of the main goals that teachers are focused on in a classroom situation is maintaining order. Such focus is a necessity because the typical classroom includes only one teacher and usually between 25 and 35 children, some degree of self-control and focus by the children therefore is practically mandated. Disruptive behaviors of ADHD kids in the classroom can disrupt learning for all children in the class and is not well tolerated by educators.

Children with ADHD, (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), exhibit just the kind of behaviors that do not contribute to order and structure in the traditional classroom. The behavioral symptoms of kids with ADHD fall into two groups; inattention symptoms and hyperactivity symptoms. Hyperactivity symptoms or behaviors can be the most disruptive to other children and include fidgety hands and feet, excessive talking, running, or climbing on things when inappropriate and not staying seated. Kids with ADHD generally seem to be driven by a tireless invisible motor. Inattention symptoms include failure to give attention to details which results in careless mistakes and difficulty focusing on tasks which results in poorly done or incomplete assignments. Inattentive ADHD kids are easily distracted and are often forgetful.

Such behaviors do not normally endear ADHD kids to either the teacher or their fellow classmates. Children with ADHD symptoms can have trouble making friends and staying on the teacher's good side, which can eventually cause a gradual loss of self-esteem and may lead to other, even more disturbing and disruptive behaviors. Educators have classified more extreme behaviors that may or may not result from ADHD, they are ODD, or Oppositional Defiant Disorder and CD, or Conduct Disorder. Oppositional Defiant Disorders include being angry, touchy or oversensitive, arguing with adults, disregard for rules and intentionally disturbing others. Conduct disorder is characterized by even more disruptive behavior and includes serious violations of rules, aggressiveness, destruction of property, theft and truancy.

It is important that parents of ADHD kids intervene early. The first step is proper diagnosis. Only a qualified physician or mental health professional can diagnose ADHD. Certain other conditions can mimic ADHD. If ADHD is indicated, a treatment program can be customized for the child. Treatments can include prescription medications, behavioral modification and education programs, changes in diet, (less processed foods) and natural supplements like high Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids found in fish oil. Medications can result in the quickest improvement of symptoms provided the right drug and dosage is found for a particular child. Worries about side effects and long term effects of drugs like Ritalin and Adderall have driven many parents to seek out alternative treatments. Alternative treatments and changes in diet have helped many, if not all kids with ADHD and can be a part of any ADHD treatment program. Education and behavior modification can allow the child to understand why he or she sometimes does things that are disruptive or get them into trouble, this understanding can help the child control behavior and be of great benefit to everyone involved.

If you are a parent of and ADHD kid, educate yourself and your child about the disorder. There are numerous treatment options available and you should be able to find one, or a combination of treatments that can best alleviate symptoms and channel the natural exuberance, energy and enthusiasm of your child into creative and productive directions.