Training Executive, Attention and Motor Skills (TEAMS): Preliminary Studies

Training Executive, Attention and Motor Skills (TEAMS): Preliminary Studies

Training Executive, Attention and Motor Skills (TEAMS) is a new research program for preschool children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) that attempts to use game-like activities and physical exercise to promote the growth of neural processes that underlie the core features of the disorder (e.g., hyperactivity, impulsivity) as well as associated areas of difficulty (e.g., socialization, motor skills). These activities are implemented at home and in supervised playgroups at no cost to families and are coupled with extensive parental education about ADHD symptoms and associated impairments.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Be at least 4.0 and less than 6.0 years of age;
2. Receive a T-score on the Hyperactivity scale of the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2) of at least 65 (1.5 SD above the mean) by either teacher or parent rating, and a score of at least 60 (1 SD above the mean) by the other rater;
3. Meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD-C or ADHD-HI as ascertained using the Kiddie-SADS, which will be administered to the parent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Chronic medical illness or is taking systemic medication;
2. Diagnosed neurological disorder;
3. Full Scale IQ below 80 as measured by the Stanford-Binet - Fifth Edition Abbreviated Battery;
4. Diagnosis of autism, pervasive developmental disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder;
5. Determined to be physically aggressive with other children;
6. Parent enrolled in a parent management training program;
7. Not attending school or day