Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Preschool Aged Children. Clinical Approaches to Early Intervention in Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Volume 1.

The need for guidelines for early intervention of children experiencing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) was identified by the Australian Early Intervention Network (AusEinet). This document attempts to guide appropriate practice in the care of children and adolescents with ADHD. The guidelines are designed to provide information to assist decision making and are based on the best practice information available. Chapter 1 discusses the search strategies developed to retrieve articles on early intervention in ADHD including practice guidelines; cases studies; difficulties with diagnosis in pre-school; and assessment procedures. Chapter 2 considers the prevalence, diagnosis, and assessment of ADHD in preschool children. Chapter 3 looks at the evidence for treatment strategies as with parental behavior management; special classroom programs; social skills training; pharmacotherapy; and diet. Chapter 4 reviews assessments such as developmental assessment; parent-child interaction and family functioning; and functioning in other environments. Chapter 5 provides conclusions about management of ADHD in preschool children. (Contains 66 references.) (JDM)