Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Guide

This guide includes information on diagnosis, treatment options, legal requirements and ways to improve life at school and home for children diagnosed with ADHD. Two important federal mandates protect the rights of eligible children: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504). IDEA provides funds to state education agencies to provide special education and related services to children evaluated in accordance with IDEA. Eligible children must have at least one of 13 specific categories of disabilities, thereby needing special education and related services. ADHD may be considered under the specific category of “Other Health Impairment” (OHI), if the disability results in limited strength, vitality or alertness, including heightened alertness to environmental stimuli resulting in limited alertness with respect to the educational environment and that is due to chronic or acute health problems. For more info, call 1-800-872-5327 or go to http://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/research/pubs/adhd/adhd-identifying.html.