Researchers from Nottingham University in Britain have found that the right kind of behavior therapy produces results similar to those of Ritalin for children with ADHD. The study focused on the effects that instant rewards had on ADHD kids.

"They found that the incentives helped the children perform better at the game, although not to the same extent as the child's normal dose of Ritalin. However, the EEG revealed that both were 'normalizing' brain activity in the same region." [Source: BBC News]

Lead researcher Professor Chris Hollis said the study found that a combination of drugs and incentives produces the best results. He believes their study implies that children may be able to take lower doses of medication if behavior incentives are used properly by parents, teachers and other caregivers.

Labels: behavior, rewards, medications

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About.com has gathered a list of tips for parents of kids with ADHD. The principles were taken from the book ADHD: Living Without Breaks, by Martin Kutscher, M.D.

"Instead of punishing wrong behavior, set a reward for the correct behavior you would rather replace it with. Rewards should be immediate, frequent, powerful, clearly defined, and consistent."

Dr. Kutscher also suggests giving a child with ADHD plenty of warning before transitioning from one activity to another. This preparation will help the transition go more smoothly. Source: SpecialChildren.About.com.

Labels: behavior, rewards, discipline

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Punishing a child for bad behavior is an unfortunate, but sometimes necessary, part of being a parent. But for kids with ADHD, it can be just as important for parents to reward good behavior.

"During a presentation at the ADHD workshop at the Doha College yesterday, Dr. Mahmoud Fakhra said parents should be informed advocates for their children's healthcare. Parents should seek appropriate medical advice from healthcare professionals and also establish contacts with ADHD advocacy groups... "

The purpose of Wednesday's workshop was to inform and educate both parents and teachers on health conditions in children. Read more at Gulf-Times.com.

Is your ADHD child spinning out of control? Animal assisted therapy, like the program offered at Aspen Ranch, can help. Learn more at AspenRanch.com.

Labels: behavior, rewards, punishment

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