CALGARY – Susan Biersbroek’s daughter MacKenzie was in grade two when she noticed something wasn’t right.
“When you look back you can see the signs. There were behaviour issues, she’s always been a little disruptive in class.”
MacKenzie was diagnosed with ADHD, a neurological disorder that impacts five to seven per cent of all kids.
Kids with ADHD often have problems with attention and are impulsive than other children.
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While research has often focused on the struggles caused by ADHD, one Calgary researcher is focusing on how these children excel.
“We know that a lot of kids with ADHD are very successful and we need to find out those things that make them successful,” says Emma Climie, lead research in a study at the University of Calgary.
Climie is looking to recruit 200 families with a child who has been diagnosed with ADHD and is between the ages of eight and 10.
Researchers will look at everything from parenting to social supports and giftedness.
“We’d like to create some intervention programs for children to be able to target some skills that they can develop and then create workshops for parents, for teachers, for resource teachers – anyone that works with these children,” says Climie.
Those interested in participating in the study or would like more information can call (403) 210-6726 or email adhdkids@ucalgary.ca.
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