ADHD checklist for parents
Some parents whose children were diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) did not receive a thorough evaluation or get a clear action plan for the future, according to the Consumer Reports survey. Here's an ADHD checklist of what to look for.
An evaluation should include
An examination by a doctor or other health-care professional, including:
- A basic medical exam
- A hearing test
- A vision test
A questionnaire for parents about their child's behavior
An interview with the parents and observation and/or testing of the child by a professional
An assessment of the child's behavior in school by one or more of the following:
- An interview with the teacher
- A questionnaire completed by teacher
- Professional observation of the child in the classroom
Diagnosis and follow-up should include
Diagnosis of the particular type of ADHD or alternate explanations for your child's problems that may need further exploration
(e.g., a learning disability or other medical or psychological problem)
Specific recommendations for how to help your child at home and in school, and what type of improvements to expect
Information on how to monitor improvements
Places to go for more information about ADHD
A schedule for follow-up care
If medication is prescribed, you should
Make an appointment for a medical exam for your child before starting the medication
Get suggestions about how to explain the medication to your child
Get information on dosages and side effects to watch for
Get information on how to monitor improvements
Schedule follow-up care
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