ADD is an abbreviation for the medical condition known as Attention Deficit Disorder, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Even though many people still refer to the disorder as ADD, it is technically now abbreviated ADHD in clinical settings. This change came about because of scientific studies and results of field trials, which show that ADHD is not one sole disorder with different varieties. Instead, ADHD is now broken down into three distinct subcategories as defined by the main symptoms and features of the disorder which include: hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness. These three subcategories are as follows:

Predominantly Combined Type of ADHD: This form of ADD or ADHD has several different symptoms of impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity;

Predominantly Inattentive Type of ADHD: This form of ADD or ADHD has several different symptoms of inattention but few to no symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity;
Predominantly Hyperactive Impulsive Type of ADHD: This form of ADD and ADHD has several symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity but few to no symptom of inattention.

All of these subcategories factor into their assessment because some children with the condition have no trouble, or very little trouble sitting still or restricting their behavior, yet they may still be quite inattentive and have a hard time staying or getting focused on a particular activity or task. Other children with the condition may be able to pay attention to what they are asked to do, but cannot remain focused and may have trouble controlling activities and impulses. The most common form of ADD or ADHD is the Combined form, in which children will have symptoms of all three issues.

If you believe that your child may have ADD or ADHD, it is important that you seek proper assistance and testing in order to ensure a proper diagnosis is made. Once the appropriate tests have been completed, and your child has been officially diagnosed, the next important step is to seek treatment and programs that will allow your child to overcome his or her obstacles and flourish.

One of the best ways to get your child the type of help that will be of the most benefit is to look into ADD schools, or enroll your child in an ADHD boarding school. These schools cater to the specific needs of the students and provide a unique learning environment in which children with a wide variety of issues can flourish and succeed in their goals.