■ LD (学習障害) 等関連新着情報 : LDニュース編集人

http://www.furiousseasons.com/archives/2008/08/michael_phelps_had_adhd.html

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"Q. You're a spokesperson for the newly launched ADHD Moms online
community, sponsored by McNeil Pediatrics. Why did you get involved?

A. Michael was diagnosed with ADHD when he was 9, so I wanted to share
our story with moms across the country. It was quite exciting to be in
Baltimore, and talk to a mom in California via podcast. This Facebook
community is a great way for moms to connect with each other.

Q. Every child with ADHD is different. Before Michael was diagnosed,
what kind of behaviors did he show?

A. He was always full of energy. He'd talk constantly, and ask
questions nonstop. He also had trouble focusing in school, and his
teachers said they couldn't get him to interact during learning time.
He was always pushing, nudging, shoving, and fidgeting. It was hard
for him to listen unless it was something that really captivated his
attention, so you can imagine what bedtime was like!

Q. What kind of treatment worked for him?

A. Michael's doctor prescribed a stimulant medication. He only took
it Monday through Friday, though - no weekends, no vacations, no
holidays. I knew he'd benefit from the medication at school.

Q. Do you have any tips for moms who have kids with ADHD?

A. Make a task list. With Michael, there were always certain things
that he knew he needed to do before going to swim practice or playing
outside with friends. I posted a task list on the refrigerator, and
gave him stickers when he completed his responsibilities. It was a fun
way to help him focus and get him out the door.

Q. Did swimming help Michael cope with ADHD?

A. It did help. Swimmers have to develop good time management when
they're juggling school work and hours of practice. The pool itself
helped Michael, too. ADHD children need parameters. There's nothing
better for that than two lane lines! Even if Michael's mind was all
over the place, he could focus on going up and down the pool. Plus,
water itself has a calming, soothing effect. I think the pool became a
safe haven where he could release his energy. But it's not just
swimming that helped Michael; it was finding his passion and
channeling his energy in that direction."