Brecheen Learning and Vision Center

Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADD/ADHD

Attention Deficit Disorder is a disorder that is usually characterized by distractibility, hyperactivity, short attention span and impulsive behavior. It is not a learning disability but can greatly interfere with a child's ability to pay attention and learn in the classroom.

There are three types of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

• · AD/HD Predominately Combined 
• · AD/HD Predominately Inattentive 
• · AD/HD Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive

Type in each case, the symptoms must be present for at least six months, be maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level, be present prior to age seven, and in two or more settings. Evidence of clinically significant impairment must be clear in academic, social, and or occupational functioning. The impairment cannot be caused by other disorders such as anxiety, psychosis, or pervasive developmental disorder.

Little agreement is found among researchers regarding symptoms of AD/HD. Many of the symptoms are also found in children or adults with allergies, sensitivity to foods or dyes, sensory integration dysfunction, and learning related visual problems. If it has been recommended that your child should be evaluated for a possible, Attention Deficit Disorder, they should be seen by a qualified professional. This would include any psychologist, neurologist or pediatrician who has experience in testing and treating Attention Deficit Disorders with that being said, vision therapy improves attention by improving visual skills that are essential for attention. Some of these skills are fixations, visual tracking, focus changes and sustainability, vergence changes and sustainability, and binocular vision.

When these skills are well developed, attention, reading, and writing are improved, and less movement is required to stay alert. This energy can now be used in the learning process.
References:

American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), 1994. Berne, Samuel, O.D., FCOVD. 

Without Ritalin: A Natural Approach to ADD, Keats Publishing, 2001. Getz, Donald. O.D., FCOVD. 

Seeing is Achieving: Improve Your Child¹s Chances for Success, Visual Edge, 1997. 

Jacobson, Michael. Diet, ADHD & Behavior: A Quarter Century Report, Center for the Science in the Public Interest,1999. 

Optometric Extension Program Foundation. Vision and Sensory Integration, 1998. 

Weintraub, Skye. NaturalTreatments for ADD and Hyperactivity, Woodland Publishing, 1997. Zimmerman, Marcia.