Parent training provides early intervention for ADHD kids

Formal training in parenting strategies is a low-risk, effective method for improving preschool-aged children’s behavior who are at risk for developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A new report from the US Department of Health and Human Services’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) confirms this.

The report states there is strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of formal parenting interventions, like parent behavior training or PBT. Children below the age of 6 benefit tremendously. Interventions are easy, free from confrontation and not harmful. The only drawback is that parents must finish the course in order to get the full benefits of the program. For those parents who do not complete the training program, their children are less likely to enjoy the successes of the parenting approach.

AHRQ Director Carolyn Clancy, MD said, “ADHD can place many challenges on families with young and school-age children. This new report and these summary publications will help children, parents and their doctors work together to find the best treatment option based on the family’s values, preferences and needs.”

The report also confirmed the benefits of Ritalin and Strattera for children aged six and up. So while drug therapies may provide benefits at six, prior to that parents may be able to effectively treat their children through their parenting strategies. There is some hope as well that the parenting intervention may curb some of the symptoms.

Source: AHRQ, MedicalNewsToday