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\nUse recommended treatment first
\nAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a biological disorder that causes hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and attention problems. Parents do not cause ADHD, but parents can play a key role in treatment. Behavior therapy is an effective treatment that improves ADHD symptoms without the side effects of medicine. It is an important first step for young children with ADHD and most effective when delivered by parents. With the support of healthcare providers and therapists, parents can learn specific ways to improve their child\u2019s behavior and keep their relationships strong. Clinical guidelines for ADHD treatment recommend that healthcare providers first refer parents of young children for training in behavior therapy before prescribing ADHD medicine. However, more young children are taking medicine for ADHD than receiving psychological services, which may include behavior therapy. Most families will benefit from behavior therapy and there are instances where medicine may be appropriate. Healthcare providers and families can work together to make sure children with ADHD are receiving the most appropriate treatment.
\nAbout 2 million of the more than 6 million children with ADHD were diagnosed as young children aged 2-5 years.
\nAbout 75% of young children with ADHD received medicine as treatment.
\nOnly about 50% of young children with ADHD in Medicaid and 40% with employer-sponsored insurance got psychological services, which may have included behavior therapy, the recommended first-line treatment.
\nWebinar Series Announcement
\nCDC and the National Council on Behavioral Health will host a webinar series for potential providers of behavior therapy, health care professionals, and parents in June to address behavior therapy for young children with ADHD. For more information on dates and times, visit the NCBH.
\nProviders of Behavior Therapy
A Clinician\u2019s Tale: How do I Provide the Best Treatment for Young Children with disruptive behaviors, including ADHD?
Health Care Professionals
Get the 4-1-1: Everything Primary Care Providers (i.e., pediatricians, nurses, and physicians assistants) should know about parent training in behavior therapy while working with families with young children with ADHD.
Parents
I\u2019m a parent of a young child with ADHD: why do I need training in behavior therapy?