1. Make expectations explicit.

   Don't assume anything or leave anything to chance.

2. Children with ADD respond to rewards and incentives.

   A point system is a possibility as part of behavior modification or a reward system for younger children. Many are little entrepreneurs.

3. Try discreetly to offer specific and explicit advice as a sort of social coaching.
   

   Many children with ADD are viewed as indifferent or selfish when in fact they just haven't learned how to interact. This skill does not come naturally to children, but it can be taught or coached.

   If the child has trouble reading social cues -- body language, tone of voice, timing, and the like -- For example, say, "Before you tell your story, ask to hear the other person's first."

4. Make a game out of things when possible.

   Motivation improves ADD.

5. Give responsibility back to the child when possible.

   Let kids devise their own method for remembering what needs to be done, or let them ask you for help rather than your telling them they need it.

6. Praise, stroke, approve, encourage, nourish.

   Praise, stroke, approve, encourage, nourish. Praise, stroke, approve, encourage, nourish.

7. Be like the conductor of a symphony. Get the orchestra's attention before beginning.

   You may use silence, or the equivalent of tapping your baton, to do this. Keep the child "in time," pointing to things that need to be done as you ask for their help.

8. Expect to repeat, repeat, repeat.

   Do it without getting angry. Anger won't increase their memory.

9. Provide for exercise.

   One of the best treatments for ADD, in both children and adults, is exercise, preferably vigorous exercise. Exercise helps work off excess energy, it helps focus attention, it stimulates certain hormones and neurochemicals that are beneficial, and it is fun. Make sure the exercise IS fun, so the child will continue to do it for the rest of his or her life.

10. Always be on the lookout for sparkling moments.

    These kids are far more talented and gifted than they often seem. They are full of creativity, play, spontaneity and good cheer. They usually have a "special something" that enhances whatever setting they're in.

Highly recommended:

Driven to Distraction: Recognizing and Copying with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood through Adulthood by Edward M. Hallowell, MD and John J. Ratey, MD. Touchstone Books, 1992. ISBN #0-684-80128-0

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