Does my child have ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

"Persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development." Let's dive into what this really means.

Does your child's teacher tell you they get out of their seat often & interupt class lectures? Do they have trouble finishing their schoolwork or chores? Do they have trouble staying focused? Often fidgeting? If you answered yes to all or most of these, your child may be showing signs of ADHD.

Don't worry! It's common. In 2024, about 7 million (11.4%) U.S. children aged 3–17 years have ever been diagnosed with ADHD.

Mental Health Professionals & Physicans consider specific criteria from observation & information from multiple people for the diagnosis of ADHD; including family at home & school staff.

The following must occur often, for at least 6 months, in 2 or more places & symptoms must be present before the age of 12:

Inattention (6 or more)

• Fail to give close attention or make careless mistakes in schoolwork

• Difficulty remaining focused

• Doesn't seem to listen when spoken to

• Doesn't follow instructions & fails to finish school work or chores

• Has difficulty organizing tasks & activities

• Reluctant to do schoolwork

• Loses things needed for tasks/activities (eg. school materials)

• Easily distracted

• Forgetful in daily activities

  *Inattentive symptoms may be more noticeable in a structured educational environment

Hyperactivity & Impulsivity (6 or more)

• Fidgets or squirms in seat

• Leaves seat when not supposed to

• Runs or climbs when inappropriate

• Unable to play quietly

• "On the go"

• Talks a lot

• Blurts out answer before a question is finished

• Difficulty waiting turn

• Interupts others

Girls versus boys

Boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD- often because they show the "typical" symptoms & girls symptoms are more "subtle" & could lead to misdiagnosis.

Girls with ADHD often have more innattentive symptoms, while boys tend to have more impulsive & hyperactive symptoms. Girls may also have more internalized symptoms, such as low self-esteem. While boys may have more externalized symtoms, such as running about.

What can I do as a parent?

• Establish routines

• Collaborate with your child's school

• Teach attention skills early (blocks, puzzles, reading)

• Behavior management:

  • Positive reinforcement

  • Negative consequences

  • Communicate reasonable expectations

  • Give simple & specific directions

  • Positive parent-child relationship

  • Be consistent