More than 6.4 million children in the United States have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (CDC.gov), and yet for most of the general public, there is a lack of understanding and compassion for those with ADHD. At We Rock the Spectrum, we believe all children should feel respected and appreciated for who they are. Without awareness and understanding, millions of children every day are bullied, unfairly disciplined, or placed into programs that are designed to address the wrong behavioral issues. ADHD is manageable if parents, teachers, and doctors work together. However, most families lack awareness about local resources and support to even provide their child with help.

At We Rock the Spectrum, we aim to create not just a physical place where all children can learn, play, and grow together, but also a place within each community where children can feel safe and understood. We want to share the facts about ADHD with our community in hopes that one day all children can feel accepted for exactly who they are.

All About Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Definition

A chronic condition including attention difficulty, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness

Know the Facts

• ADHD is one of the most common neuro-developmental disorders of childhood, and often lasts into adulthood
• Can’t be cured, but medication and therapeutic intervention can teach management strategies
• First signs of ADHD appear as early as 3-6 years old
• 4% of adults in the United States over the age of 18 have ADHD
• Males are 3x more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than females
• Treating ADHD costs the United States more than $42.5 billion a year
• Girls express their symptoms in less obvious ways than boys, typically by internalizing their symptoms more
• Up to 30% of children with ADHD also experience anxiety disorders

Why it Matters

Diagnosing and understanding ADHD can be the difference between living a life of frustration or getting treatment and feeling a sense of relief. It means giving those with ADHD the opportunity to have better control of their life and their behaviors. For children, understanding ADHD can help to improve their school experience and their learning opportunities. Essentially, an accurate diagnosis drives effective treatment.

How We Rock the Spectrum is a Resource for People with ADHD

Children with ADHD often have a hard time self-stimulating, and that’s why the activities, classes, and equipment that We Rock the Spectrum provides are so beneficial. We Rock the Spectrum provides them with the stimulation and sensory diet that they need to better manage their ADHD.

Our gyms create an inclusive environment for children to play, learn, and grow together. By providing a space filled with safe, sensory-filled stimulation, children with ADHD can finally regulate their body, improve their social skills, and develop focus.

To learn more about how We Rock the Spectrum helps children with ADHD, see our previous post about the ways We Rock the Spectrum helps children with ADHD.