How to spot signs of childhood ADHD

It is completely normal for young children to have a short attention span and switch from one activity to another every few minutes. In fact, it’s generally expected. This is especially true for toddlers as there’s always something fun and new in their environment to learn about! Many developmental experts suggest that on average, a child’s attention span ranges from 2-5 minutes for each year of their age. Yet when children grow older and still show difficulty focusing and maintaining behavior, it could point to an underlying condition such as ADHD.

Find out more about ADHD and learn how we can help.

What is ADHD?

Attention/deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition common in children that can also follow them into adulthood. This condition typically affects a child’s attention span, impulse behavior and hyperactivity.

Signs of ADHD can include patterns of:

• Being easily distracted
• Difficultly focusing on tasks at school or home
• Easily frustrated by hard or long tasks
• Fidgety body movements, such as being unable to stay seated in class
• Lack of attention to detail
• Struggles to manage behavior at home or school
• Extreme disorganization

Symptoms can differ between boys and girls, so if you have concerns, your pediatrician wants to know about them – even if your child doesn’t have all of the symptoms above.

It’s important to note that ADHD affects more than just learning and behavior. It can lead to a more challenging childhood and adulthood if left untreated. Children with ADHD can also suffer from low self-esteem, be more prone to accidents, find it difficult to be accepted by peers, struggle in social settings and more.

Support and Treatment

Nearly 11% of children between 4-17 have ADHD. Symptoms of ADHD generally appear in children before the age of 12 and in some cases can appear as early as 3 years old. ADHD can also strain your child’s performance at school and home, while also posing the challenge of building and maintaining social relationships.

ADHD can be evaluated by visiting with a pediatric provider who can properly diagnose them and identify the best method of treatment. Treatment options for children may include:

• Behavioral therapy
• Medications
• Counseling resources or other forms of therapy including social skills training, family therapy and more
• Incorporating healthy habits, organization skills and self-esteem improvement

After an evaluation, parents can also work with their teachers and schools. Many schools have programs that give your child more support in their unique way of learning, including special testing methods, changes to their learning environment and other helpful tools so your child can continue to succeed!

If you suspect your child could have symptoms of ADHD and don’t know where to start, please contact our office to schedule an appointment today.

Click here for a first-time ADHD evaluation.

Regardless of the date published, no content on this website should ever be used as a replacement for direct medical advice from your primary care provider or another qualified clinician.