Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) is a type of disability which apparently involves some mis-wiring of the brain or the hormonal systems in the body. As a result of the disorder, children tend to be markedly inattentive and often are hyperactive (sometimes to the point of being almost frantic in their movements). The disorder usually is treated by administration of stimulants (such as amphetamines) - which have the unusual effect of slowing these children down (while the rest of the population would be highly-stimulated by these same drugs). This disorder is NOT the fault of the parents. It does NOT mean that the child lacks discipline (either by the coach or by his parents). What it DOES mean is that, just like a child with diabetes or the player with asthma, this player needs to take certain drugs to be able to function normally. While these players can create some headaches and frustrations until the coach learns the proper way to handle their particular problems (and gives the parents enough feedback to adjust dosages, if necessary, to handle disruptions at practice), most of these children can do just fine in soccer. In fact, because of their high energy levels, these players often make terrific little players once their energy can be harnessed. To be able to harness their energies, the coach needs some more information about the disorder. Characteristics of ADHD/ADD arise in early childhood, often before seven years of age, for most individuals. Boys are about three times more likely than girls to have symptoms of ADHD/ADD. Individuals with ADHD/ADD may know what to do but do not consistently do what they know because of their inability to efficiently stop and think prior to responding, regardless of the setting or task (in other words, they tend to be very impulsive - and to act without thinking). This can result in serious social problems, impairment of relationships, and/or lack of success. Doing things without thinking about the consequences can put them in dangerous situations (as they might run into traffic without looking, or climb the tree while the coach's back is turned). Thus, coaches of children with ADHD must be vigilant in keeping an eye on these charges, especially when they are fairly young. 

The official definition of ADHD can be found at the CHADD website. Children may have attention deficits (i.e., be impulsive and unable to focus) without being hyperactive - or they also can display the additional frenetic hyperactivity which is commonly associated with the disorder. 

    ADHD should be diagnosed by a physician or qualified mental health professional. It is not uncommon that children are suspected of having the disorder, when they simply are "full of life". Therefore, most coaches will not be able to diagnose the disorder. Nonetheless, if the player appears to be demonstrating many characteristics of an ADHD child, the coach may wish to quietly and confidentially approach the parents to report his observations - and ask for assistance and advice on the best way to deal with the child. 

    Many children with ADHD/ADD have above-average intelligence, so they may actually understand your explanations better than others. However, you do have to make sure they are paying attention. It is pointless to yell at them if they are inattentive or distracted. If they clearly are having a bad day, or didn't understand, the best approach is often to take them aside with their back to the group to have this discussion, in order to reduce outside distractions. It can be useful to get face to face with them, at their level, to force them to make eye contact and focus on you. Once you have their attention, you should explain things clearly and keep it very simple. Ask them to repeat what you said so you can be sure that they understood, then send them back to the group. 

    Indeed, if you already know that you have an ADHD player in your group, you can do this in the guise of a normal demo, simply by saying "OK, Johnny, now show me what we are going to do so I can be sure that everyone understood me". This avoids pulling the player out, and seems to reduce the emotional overlay which can lead to additional disruptions (as no player likes to be seen as different, or stupid). 

    If an ADHD/ADD child becomes disruptive, the best way to manage the situation is be firm, and to remove them from the group for a few minutes. Bring the player over to stand beside you. Don't make a big deal about it - just say "John, come over and stand by me, please". Or send the child off with an assistant. Often, if they just sit for 5 minutes, they can come back in (and use it as a carrot - "John, if you stand still and just listen for 3 minutes, you can do the demo for me"). It often can be helpful to simply tell them to come and let you know when they think that they are ready to follow the rules.