Show parents you are paying attention to their kids’ needs
By Kathryn Boutwell
An estimated 6.1-million American children between the ages of 2 and 17—9.4 percent—have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This means that nearly 10 percent of youth participating in your leagues, classes, activities, and sporting events may face challenges learning and engaging in the world around them due to the realities of this complex but common neurodevelopmental disorder. As a park and recreation leader, it is important to ensure activities are organized inclusively to serve the needs of all young community members—including those with ADHD.
Having a creative assortment of activities is valuable in ensuring that youth are excited and will make choices that align with their interests and capabilities. Therefore, park and recreation departments should offer physical, creative, and performance activities for young people in the community.