Aloha Notes: My career as a School Psychologist in Hawaii

Most teachers would describe a student who has ADHD as hyperactive and restless, always fidgeting, interrupting others, running around the classroom, and always getting into trouble. These are typical characteristics-- of boys with ADHD. ADHD in GIRLS.  Half of girls who have been diagnosed with ADHD are the "predominantly inattentive" type, which is described as forgetful, easily distracted, they appear to be in their own world, and often do not follow directions and make careless mistakes. Girls who have symptoms of hyperactivity are less likely to run around the classroom and more likely to be constantly chatting . Compared to boys who have ADHD, girls are often less defiant Girls are less likely to receive the help that they need . What can parents do? Team up with your child's school teacher and school level supports:   Develop a communication plan with your child's classroom teacher in order to have a consistent reinforcement plan at ho...

BULLYING . Online "cyber"   bullying is a real problem that impacts Honolulu and Hawaii students on a daily basis...  There are many tools that can assist families, teachers, and communities in educating children and teens in keeping their online identity safe.  Common Sense Media  is a great resources for educators, parents, and students to practice safe social media browsing and to keep help families talk to their kids about their online identity.  Common Sense Media Some Facts • 25 percent of teens say they have created social network pages under another person’s identity • 60 percent of youth ages 11 to 18 lie about their age online • 34 percent of teens say that sometimes they feel they are a different person online than in real life What’s the Issue? The online world provides a space to be whoever you want to be. Teens may occasionally try out different personas in the real world, but the Internet can be a virtual testing ground for experi...