What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder of the neurodevelopmental
type. It is characterized by problems paying attention, excessive activity, or difficulty controlling
behavior which is not appropriate for a person’s age.
Early Signs of ADHD
Most children aren’t checked for ADHD until they’re old enough to be in school; however, it can
be diagnosed as early as 4 years old. Compared to other kids their age, children with ADHD will
stand out in three behaviors: inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The following
symptoms may be present:
Inattentiveness Signs and Symptoms
- Have trouble staying focused; easily distracted or get bored with a task before it’s
completed - Appear not to listen when spoken to
- Have difficulty remembering things or following instructions
- Has trouble staying organized, planning ahead, and finishing projects
- Frequently loses or misplaces toys, homework, etc.
Hyperactivity Signs and Symptoms
- Have a harder time sitting still, even for a few minutes
- Are unable to wait their turn (blurting out answers or cutting to the front of the line)
- Talk excessively
- Constantly fidgets and squirms
- Has difficulty sitting still, playing quietly, or relaxing
- Moves around constantly, often runs or climbs inappropriately
Impulsivity Signs and Symptoms
- Acts without thinking
- Appear not to listen when spoken to
- Have difficulty remembering things or following instructions
- Guesses, rather than taking the time to solve the problem or blurts out answers in class
without being called on or hearing the whole question - Intrudes on other people’s conversations or games
- Often interrupts others, says the wrong thing at the wrong time
- Inability to keep powerful emotions in check, resulting in angry outbursts or temper
tantrums
What to Do if You Start Noticing Signs
Pay Close Attention and Take Notes. The better you are able to communicate the
signs/symptoms you’ve seen in your child, the easier it will be for a doctor to diagnose.
Talk to Your Child’s Teacher. If you start to notice signs of ADHD, talk to your child’s teacher.
Ask how they behave in the classroom, how they interact with other kids, and how they’ve been
progressing throughout the year. Your child’s teacher is the one person they spend they spend
the most time with besides you, and they may notice more signs after observing your
child’s social interactions.
Trust Your Gut. Know when it is time to talk to a doctor and don’t wait. A child’s symptoms of
ADHD can cause many problems if left untreated. Children who can’t focus and control
themselves may struggle in school, get into frequent trouble, and find it hard to get along with
others or make friends.
There are several options to get started when it comes to getting help such as therapy,
implementing a better diet and exercise plan, and modifying the home environment to minimize distractions. Treatment can make a dramatic difference in your child’s symptoms. With the right support, your child can get on track for success in all areas of life.
Positive Effects of ADHD in Children
- Creativity—children with ADHD can be marvelously creative and imaginative. Children
with ADHD can become master problem-solvers or inventive artists. - Flexibility—Because children with ADHD consider a lot of options at once, they don’t
become set on one alternative early on and are more open to different ideas. - Enthusiasm and Spontaneity—children with ADHD are rarely boring. They are
interested in a lot of different things and have lively personalities. They’re just a lot of fun
to be with! - Energy and Drive—When kids with ADHD are motivated, they work hard or play hard
and strive to succeed.
Parenting Tips for Children With ADHD
- Take care of yourself so you’re better able to care for your child. Eat right, exercise,
get enough sleep, and find ways to reduce stress. - Establish structure and stick to it. Help your child stay focused and organized by
following daily routines, simplifying your child’s schedule, and keeping your child busy
with healthy activities. - Set clear expectations. Make the rules of behavior simple and explain what will happen
when they are obeyed or broken—and follow through each time with a reward or a
consequence. - Encourage exercise and sleep. Physical activity improves concentration and promotes
brain growth. Physical activity also leads to better sleep, which in turn can reduce the
symptoms of ADHD.