NLST (finals) - School Age, ADHD and ASD

ADHD

A neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning at school, home, and social settings

Predominantly Inattentive Type

Characterized by:

- difficulty focusing

- being easily distracted

- forgetfulness

- trouble following instructions

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

Characterized by:

- excessive movements (fidgeting)

- difficulty staying seated

- interrupting others

- acting without thinking

Combined Type

The presence of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms; it is the most common type

Symptom Timeline

Symptoms usually appear before age 12 and must be present in multiple settings (home and school)

Inattention Symptoms

- Short attention span

- careless mistakes

- difficulty organizing tasks

- frequently losing things

Hyperactivity Symptoms

- Constant movement/restlessness

- excessive talking

- difficulty engaging in quiet activities

Impulsivity Symptoms

- Interrupting conversations

- difficulty waiting for turns

- acting without considering consequences

Multifactorial Etiology

ADHD involves biological and environmental influences, including genetic factors (strong hereditary link), brain structure/function differences, and environmental factors (prenatal exposure to alcohol/toxins, low birth weight)

Protein

Supports brain function and neurotransmitters (found in eggs, fish, chicken)

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

May improve attention (found in sardines and tuna)

Iron & Zinc

Linked to cognitive function

Magnesium

Helps calm the nervous system

B-Vitamins

Support brain metabolism

Dietary Strategy for ADHD

Maintain a regular meal schedule to prevent energy crashes; limit excess sugar and artificial food colorings

Behavioral Therapy

Management using positive reinforcement, structured routines, and clear rules

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

Helps manage emotions/impulsivity and improves coping strategies

ADHD Classroom Strategies

Seat the student near the teacher, minimize distractions, and provide frequent feedback and visual aids

ASD

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social communication/interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests

Why ASD is a "Spectrum"

Symptoms and severity vary widely among individuals

Onset of Symptoms

Usually appear in early childhood (before age 3)

Social Communication Difficulties

- Limited eye contact

- difficulty understanding social cues

- delayed speech

- difficulty maintaining conversations

Restricted/Repetitive Behaviors

- Repetitive body movements

- insistence on routines

- resistance to change

Sensory Sensitivities

Overreaction or underreaction to sounds, textures, and lights

ASD Etiology

Believed to be multifactorial, including:

- genetic factors (gene mutations)

- prenatal influences (maternal infection)

- neurological differences in brain structure

Common Feeding Issues in ASD

- Picky eating

- sensory-based food aversions

- preference for specific textures or colors

ASD Nutritional Risks

Deficiencies in Calcium, Vitamin D, Iron, and Fiber

GFCF Diet

The Gluten-free, casein-free diet, which some families try (use with caution)

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)

A type of behavioral therapy used for ASD along with social skills training

Speech and Language Therapy (ASD)

Improves communication

Occupational Therapy (ASD)

Helps with daily living skills and sensory issues

IEP (Individualized Education Plan) - (ASD)

Customized educational support for the student

ASD Strengths

- Strong memory

- attention to detail

- specialized talents in math, arts, or music

Latent time of growth

School Age Range: Ages 5 to 12 years

Primary Level Characteristics

- Ages 6-8 (Grades 1-3)

- learning basic skills, strong dependence on parents/teachers

Intermediate Level Characteristics

- Ages 9-11 (Grades 4-6)

- improved academic skills and strong peer interaction

Physical Growth Rate

Slower rate; approximately 2-2.5 inches in height and 3-6 lbs in weight added annually

Growth Spurt Onset

- Girls begin rapid growth at age 9-10

- an increase in foot size is an initial indicator

- Male growth spurt begins between 12 and 16 years

Leg Growth

Accounts for 66% of height increases until adolescence

Brain Growth

Essentially complete by age 10 or 12

Vision Development

- Normal 20/20 vision achieved between ages 9-11

- binocular vision established by age 6

Otitis Media

The most common cause of hearing loss in kindergarten and first-grade children

Industry versus Inferiority

The core psychosocial tension/problem during school age

Catch-up Growth

Faster-than-expected weight and height gains following a slow growth period

Fluid Requirement

A healthy child requires 4-6 glasses (1-1.5 liters) of fluid daily

Cariogenic CHO

Sucrose (sugar) is considered the most cariogenic (cavity-causing) carbohydrate

Weight Training Benefits

- Improves muscular strength

- enhances bone density

- helps maintain healthy weight

Weight Training Guidelines

- Focus on proper form/technique, not heavy weights

- frequency of 2-3 times a week with adult supervision

IMCI (Integrated Management of Childhood Diseases)

A UNICEF holistic approach to reducing child illness/mortality focusing on health worker skills, health systems, and household practices

Types of Special Needs

- Physical disabilities

- intellectual disabilities

- developmental disorders

- chronic health conditions