Authors (including presenting author) :
Wong WYZ, Sezto NW, Lai PW , Lau PK, Pun HY, Hui N
Affiliation :
Department of Occupational Therapy, United Christian Hospital
Introduction :
Mild Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) significantly affects primary school student’s academic and social well-being. Without early intervention, children may continue to struggle with difficulties in attention, focus and organization, leading to academic challenges, falling behind in school and developing a negative attitude towards learning.
Objectives :
The program aims to: 1. More swiftly identify and support children with mild ADHD through an enhanced intake process 2. Improve overall functioning by targeting executive function, social and fine motor skills 3. Empower children with practical strategies to effectively manage ADHD symptoms
Methodology :
The program implemented an enhanced intake process with stratified screening to ensure timely and tailored interventions based on symptom severity. Major intervention provided included: Functional and Homework Management strategies, Social Skills Enhancement group, and play-based activities for Fine Motor Skills Development. Sensory Strategies were also included to improve self-regulation in managing ADHD symptoms. Children’s Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) was conducted to assess the changes of children's overall functioning, and parent feedback was collected to evaluate the program's effectiveness.
Result & Outcome :
From December 2022 to November 2024, 263 primary school children with mild ADHD were screened, and 81 completed the subsequent OT intervention. The completed data set were analyzed using paired t-test. There were significant improvements in the CGAS scores (p < 0.0001). Parents provided qualitative feedback, highlighting positive improvements in their children's behaviour, social interactions, and homework performance at home or school. The OT program for mild ADHD effectively improved children's functioning and reduced life challenges in school and home through early intervention. By integrating functional and homework management with social skills and fine motor development, it addressed the multifaceted needs of children with mild ADHD in real life situation.
