For young children, this may mean that they have not experienced that nurturing story time before bed when a child nestles into a mother's or father's lap. For older children, they may not have playmates because their classmates do not understand their behavior. This is why comprehensive early intervention is so vital. Children who systematically fail in school will always develop secondary problems that usually are not constructive and complicate the treatment plan. Thus, the longer the child's ADHD and learning disabilities are not properly diagnosed and effectively managed, the more at risk a child becomes.
Specific strategies vary from child to child.
Consistent classroom expectations and consequences. Regular and effective family therapy. Direct social-skill instruction. Regular communication mechanisms between home and school. Coaching and cuing.