Understanding ADHD in Children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood developmental disorders.

Typically symptoms start developing before age 7. Children with ADHD may appear overly hyper, compulsive, active or unable to focus. These symptoms create significant challenges in at least two areas of their day-to-day life: home, social settings, school, activities or work (for adults).

Remember that everyone matures differently. Behaviors shouldn't cause concern unless they are more severe or frequent than in other children the same age. Additional factors – personality, temperament, energy or other health conditions – are sometimes mistaken for ADHD. Because of this, careful diagnosis is crucial. The evaluation process typically includes several tests performed by a behavioral health professional.

What are the common ADHD symptoms? Signs are grouped into three areas:

Signs of ADHD are grouped into three areas: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Inattention

A child with ADHD may:

• Be easily distracted.
• Not appear to listen.
• Avoid or dislike tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
• Struggle to follow through on instructions, especially with multiple steps.
• Frequently forget or misplace belongings.

Hyperactivity

A child with ADHD may:

• Have difficulty doing quiet activities.
• Excessively fidget, talk or "be squirmy."
• Have difficulty remaining seated.
• Act as if driven by a motor.

Impulsivity

A child with ADHD may:

• Blurt out answers before questions have been completed.
• Frequently make unnecessary mistakes or take risks.
• Interrupt others.
• Have difficulty waiting or taking turns.

What should you do if you think your child has ADHD? Contact your pediatrician to discuss. If further assessment is needed, your pediatrician may recommend evaluation by a licensed behavioral health professional.