KIDS INPERTH
The
Born & Bred in WA
,
JUNE 2017
Parents Paper
www.kidsinperth.com
PRICELESS
For parents with children aged from birth to 14 • Free every month
ADHD affects boys and girls differently
A
bout 10% of children have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and it can affect boys and girls differently. Boys with ADHD are more likely to be hyperactive, whilst girls with ADHD tend to be more inattentive and can be overlooked. New research shows that ADHD also has a bigger effect on girls, both in the short-term at school, and in the long-term with respect to employment opportunities. Girls also tend to cope less well and are more prone to anxiety and depression. In the past, treatment for ADHD has been limited to medication. However, now it is generally accepted that the most effective treatment for ADHD should be ‘patientcentred’ and involve a range of interventions. Treatments that have been proven to be effective include behavioural therapy, psychoeducation, lifestyle and diet changes and Neurofeedback Therapy (brainwave training). There is no ‘one-size fits all approach’ and families should be able to make an informed choice based upon the range of treatments now available. The Perth Brain Centre focuses primarily on providing Neurofeedback Therapy in
Fun is the secret to learning
conjunction with behavioural interventions, psycho-education, lifestyle and dietary advice. Neurofeedback is recognised by The American Academy of Paediatrics to be an effective treatment for ADHD and is featured in Dr Norman Doidge’s book The Brain’s Way of Healing, the sequel to his international best-selling book The Brain That Changes Itself. Neurofeedback is a brain-based treatment that uses a sophisticated brain-computer interface to ‘strengthen’ or retrain the brain. At The Perth Brain Centre, a special scan, called a QEEG is used to pin-point the problem areas within the brain and permits targeted and individualised training. The Perth Brain Centre has been helping children with ADHD and their families for 10 years. Neurofeedback is suitable for people of almost all ages and can also be helpful for other conditions such as anxiety, depression, headaches and migraines. Getting successful treatment for ADHD can change your child’s life. For further information, phone 6500 3277 or visit www.perthbraincentre.com.au
W
hile slogans like ‘no pain, no gain’ and ‘genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration’ have some merit, there’s a danger that plain old fun has been sent straight to the frivolous bin. And that’s a problem, because fun is every child’s friend when it comes to learning. Research says fun is essential. There’s plenty of evidence from medical and educational researchers that says fun is a key ingredient for learning. A Washington Post article cited brain research that suggests ‘fun is not just beneficial to learning but, by many reports, required for authentic learning and long-term memory’. In a book about research-based strategies to ignite education, neurologist and educator Judy Willis said ‘the human brain and body respond positively to laughter with the release of endorphin, epinephrine (adrenaline), and dopamine, and with increased breathing volume (more oxygen)’. It’s even more important outside of school. The research is probably just validating what most teachers and parents today already know. Kids engage more and learn more when they’re doing things that are fun. So
it’s particularly important that learning beyond school, such as after-school tuition, is enjoyable. Not only does it enable genuine learning, it also ensures your child doesn’t have to be dragged kicking and screaming to tuition. Even your conversation on the journey to the tuition centre should focus on what makes it fun, rather than reminders of under-achievement areas you’d like to see improving. NumberWorks’nWords tuition programs are designed to be both effective and enjoyable. It’s a blend that’s been fine-tuned for over thirty years. Children are rewarded with games during their lesson – and the feeling of continually getting better at learning simply adds to their enjoyment. Tutors are skilled at maintaining positive interactions with each student and building their confidence.
'I didn’t know you could have fun and learn maths at the same time!' – Kylie, Year 8 NumberWorks’nWords Subiaco provides specialist Maths and English tuition by harnessing the power of fun. Call 9388 3727 to arrange a free trial lesson and assessment.
Re-train just as good in winter
brain The Perth Brain Centre, established in 2007, uses the latest neuroplastic therapies to “strengthen” and “re-train the brain”.
Neuroplastic therapies are appealing as they are non-invasive and drug-free.
LAS/FEB17
An experienced and caring team of health care professionals provide innovative and evidence-based treatments for a range of conditions including:
• ADHD and Learning Disorders • Anxiety and Depression
• Chronic Pain • Headache and Migraines
3 Night Stays $ *
Perth Brain Centre
From
330
Discounted ferry travel available when you book!
For further information please telephone 6500 3277
Attadale & Currambine locations
*Conditions apply. Prices based on stays in 2-bedroom Premium holiday units. For details, visit rottnestisland.com/winterescape
www.perthbraincentre.com.au
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