Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder In Pediatrics (ADHD)

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions diagnosed in childhood, affecting an estimated 8–10% of children and adolescents. It can lead to challenges with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with academic performance, social development, and family dynamics. Early diagnosis and evidence-based management are key to improving long-term outcomes for children with ADHD.

This CME/CE course is designed to provide healthcare professionals with up-to-date, practical knowledge on the diagnosis and management of ADHD in pediatric settings. Participants will learn to apply DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, differentiate ADHD from other developmental or behavioral conditions, and use validated tools such as the Vanderbilt and Conners rating scales to improve diagnostic accuracy.

The course also explores comprehensive treatment strategies, including pharmacologic interventions (e.g., stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines), non-stimulant options, behavioral therapy, and school-based interventions. Evidence on the effectiveness, side effects, and patient-specific considerations for each treatment modality will be reviewed.

Participants will develop skills in formulating individualized treatment plans, monitoring medication efficacy and side effects, and fostering collaboration with educators, mental health professionals, and families. Practical strategies for managing comorbid conditions such as anxiety, learning disabilities, and sleep disorders are also covered.

By the end of this course, clinicians will have the tools and confidence to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care to children with ADHD, helping them reach their full potential both inside and outside the classroom.

Educational Objectives

• Identify diagnostic criteria for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) using DSM-5 standards.
• Review validated assessment tools and evidence-based strategies for accurate ADHD diagnosis in children.
• Evaluate pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options, including behavioral therapy and educational accommodations.
• Develop individualized ADHD management plans that include symptom monitoring and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Recognize and address comorbid conditions that may complicate ADHD presentation and treatment in pediatric patients.

Who Should Do This Course?

This course is designed for:

• Pediatricians and Family Physicians providing routine behavioral health screenings and follow-up care.
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists and Pediatric Psychologists involved in developmental evaluations.
• Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in school health, pediatrics, or primary care settings.
• Nurses supporting children and families through diagnosis, treatment adherence, and care coordination.

It is beneficial for providers working in collaborative care models, school-based health centers, and integrated behavioral health settings.

Did You Know?

• ADHD affects about 6 million children in the U.S. alone. (CDC, 2022)
• Only 50–60% of children with ADHD receive behavioral therapy alongside medication. (AAP, 2021)
• Up to 30% of children with ADHD have co-occurring anxiety disorders. (JAMA Psychiatry, 2019)
• Early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD are linked to improved academic outcomes and reduced risk of substance abuse. (Pediatrics, 2020)
• ADHD is diagnosed more often in boys, but girls may be underdiagnosed due to less overt hyperactivity. (Child Dev, 2018)