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Expert Advice for Preschool

My daughter is 3 years old and just recently started preschool. The other day her teacher told me that she is having a lot of trouble staying focused and spacing out. She is also not listening to the teacher when the teacher tells her to stop doing something that she isn't suppose to be doing. Do you think she might have ADD? Is there any way I can help her to stay focused and to get her to listen to the teacher when she is first asked instead of her doing the bad thing over and over again? Please help.

- Tiffany, Midwest City, OK

Dr. Yinka Davies, Pediatrician, Mother of Two, says:

The first thing to consider is making sure your daughter is getting goodnights sleep and eating a healthy breakfast in the morning. These will help her get off to a great start. It is important to discuss these concerns with your primary care taker so that if necessary they can refer you for the proper evaluation. It may be helpful for you to spend the day with your daughter in class –this may help you evaluate the concerns first hand.

Was this advice Helpful? (1 votes) (0 votes)

Posted on: 6/5/2009 4:54 PM

Posted by: Karen M

City: Chattanooga

I have read two of the responses to your question, have not seen this possibility mentioned: You might want to talk to your childs pediatrician about the possibility of seizures. Spacing out COULD be symptoms of Absence seizures formerly called Petit Mal seizures. She may only be daydreaming or avoiding some unpleasantness. It is certainly worth discussing with her doctor.

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