Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

  • A publication of the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities


    Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

    Table of Contents

    Fact Sheet 19 (FS19)
    Approx. 8 pages when printed.
    PDF version



    Mario's Story

    Mario is 10 years old. When he was 7, his family learned he had AD/HD. At the time, he was driving everyone crazy. At school, he couldn't stay in his seat or keep quiet. At home, he didn't finish his homework or his chores. He did scary things, too, like climb out of his window onto the roof and run across the street without looking.

    Things are much better now. Mario was tested by a trained professional to find out what he does well and what gives him trouble. His parents and teachers came up with ways to help him at school. Mario has trouble sitting still, so now he does some of his work standing up. He's also the student who tidies up the room and washes the chalkboard. His teachers break down his lessons into several parts. Then they have him do each part one at a time. This helps Mario keep his attention on his work.

    At home, things have changed, too. Now his parents know why he's so active. They are careful to praise him when he does something well. They even have a reward program to encourage good behavior. He earns good job points that they post on a wall chart. After earning 10 points he gets to choose something fun he'd like to do. Having a child with AD/HD is still a challenge, but things are looking better.