Signs of ADHD in Children
All children will have trouble concentrating at some point. Maybe they have trouble focusing on homework or you catch them daydreaming a lot. While this is often normal, it’s also important to be able to recognize when your child’s daydreaming and lack of focus could actually be a warning sign of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Here are some common signs and symptoms of childhood ADHD,
- Easily distracted
- Hyperactive (fidgets and has trouble sitting still)
- Impulsive (has trouble waiting their turn to speak or jumps to the front of a line)
- May start multiple tasks, chores or work but never finishes them
- Makes careless mistakes
- Often loses items or seems disorganized
- Forgetful
- Unfocused or has trouble staying focused
- Doesn’t seem to listen when spoken to
- Loses interest in tasks easily
- Interrupts others
- Has trouble playing quietly
The three classic symptoms of ADHD including inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, but children do not need to display all three of these classic symptoms in order to have ADHD; however, these behaviors must be displayed in all settings including home and school and it must be interfering with your child’s school, personal and social life in order for this to be true ADHD.
Again, all children are going to show a lack of focus on their homework sometimes or may be forgetful when they feel particularly stressed, and it’s important to be able to distinguish between the two. However, if your child displays these behaviors regularly and they are impacting their social interactions and school performance then it may be time to talk to us about getting your child tested for ADHD.
Testing for ADHD In Baltimore, MD
There is no specific test designed for ADHD. Instead, Dr. Stacey Eadie and her team will sit down with each family and gather as much information as possible from the parents or caregiver. We will also need to assess the child’s behavior, as well. Several assessments will need to be made by your doctor before determining whether your child has ADHD.
We will also ask you questions about your child’s behaviors including the severity of their symptoms, when the symptoms started, and how long they have been going on. A medical exam will also be necessary to rule out other potential health problems or physical causes for your child’s symptoms.