The Symptoms of ADHD
It is difficult to diagnose children less than 5 with ADHD because many children have some symptoms of ADHD in that age group. To confirm a diagnosis of ADHD the symptoms or behaviors must occur in more than one setting, such as in school and at home, they must start before the age of 7, be present for at least 6 months, and must interfere with functioning at home ,school, or in social settings. Children with ADHD show signs of inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity. Your pediatrician can assess whether your child has ADHD using standard guidelines developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. He or she will also look for other conditions that may mimic or coexist with ADHD.
The academy lists the following symptoms for a child 6 to 12 years old:
Symptoms of Inattention
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The child has a hard time paying attention or daydreams
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The child does not seem to listen
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The child is easily distracted and doesn't finish an assignment or chore.
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The child has trouble following through on instructions.
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The child does not care about details and makes careless mistakes.
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The child is disorganized
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The child loses a lot of important things
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The child forgets things
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The child avoids doing things that require a lot mental attention
Symptoms of Hyperactivity
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The child is in constant motion as if “driven by a motor”
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The child cannot stay seated
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The child squirms and fidgets
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The child talks too much
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The child runs, jumps, and climbs excessively even when not permitted
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The child cannot play quietly
Symptoms of Impulsivity
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The child acts and speaks without thinking
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The child has difficulty waiting in lines or taking turns
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The child blurts out answers
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The child interrupts others
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The child may run into the street without checking for traffic
Children with ADHD may have symptoms of inattention only, symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity only, or symptoms of combined inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.