ADHD can affect a child at school , at home, and in friendships. All kids struggle at times to pay attention, listen and follow directions, sit still, or wait their turn.
But for kids with ADHD, the struggles are harder and happen more often. Sometimes parents and teachers notice signs of ADHD when a child is very young. But it's normal for little kids to be distracted, restless, impatient, or impulsive — these things don't always mean that a child has ADHD. Attention, activity, and self-control develop little by little, as children grow.
Kids learn these skills with help from parents and teachers. But some kids don't get much better at paying attention, settling down, listening, or waiting. When these things continue and begin to cause problems at school, home, and with friends, it may be ADHD. It's not clear what causes the brain differences of ADHD. Many kids who have ADHD have a parent or relative with it. Kids also can be more at risk for it if they were born early, are exposed to environmental toxins, or their mothers used drugs during pregnancy.
If you think your child has ADHD, make an appointment with your child's doctor. They will do a checkup, including a vision and hearing check, to be sure something else isn't causing the symptoms.
To diagnose ADHD, doctors start by asking about a child's health, behavior, and activity. They talk with parents and kids about the things they have noticed. Your doctor might ask you to complete checklists about your child's behavior, and might ask you to give your child's teacher a checklist too.
Many kids with ADHD also have learning problems, oppositional and defiant behaviors, or mood and anxiety problems. Doctors usually treat these along with the ADHD. The right treatment helps ADHD improve. Parents and teachers can teach younger kids to get better at managing their attention, behavior, and emotions. As they grow older, kids should learn to improve their own attention and self-control.
When ADHD is not treated, it can be hard for kids to succeed. Hyperactivity may also be caused by a mental health condition. In that case, your doctor may refer you to a mental health specialist. The specialist may prescribe medication, therapy, or both. Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT and talk therapy are often used to treat hyperactivity. Talk therapy involves discussing your symptoms with a therapist.
Your therapist can help you develop strategies to cope with hyperactivity and reduce its effects. You may need to take medications to help control hyperactivity. These medications may be prescribed to children or adults. They have a calming effect in people with ADHD.
Some of these medications may be habit-forming if used incorrectly. Your doctor or mental health specialist will monitor your medication use.
Your doctor may also advise you to avoid stimulants that may trigger symptoms. For example, they might encourage you to avoid caffeine and nicotine. If left untreated, hyperactivity may disrupt your work, schooling, and personal relationships. It may be sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment. If you suspect that you or your child has hyperactivity, talk to your doctor. Depending on the underlying cause, they might recommend medication, therapy, or both.
They might also refer you to a specialist for care. Impulsivity, being overly fidgety…. It would be best if this image were omitted as soon as possible, as it is rather inappropriate. I have researched for years, been to psychologists, counsellors, paediatricians and yet after all that have left feeling misunderstood and frustrated.
Today I accidentally happened across your site and it is the very first time you over 10 years that I finally feel that I understand more about what is going on with my child. So I just wanted to say thank you from a Mum who has searched for so long for some answers and some understanding!! That is so wonderful to hear. Definitely check out our free sensory workshop. You can save your seat HERE. Please reach out to us with any questions at all.
Thanks so much for sharing your insights and experience, it will help others. The article on hyperactive kids is close to accurate, but missed a couple. One thing that is unfortunetly missed is Restless Leg Syndrome. My daughter was diagnosed at 4 yrs old with sever ADHD.
She did not sleep more than 4 hrs a day, and not in a row. She even walked in her sleep. She has an extremely severe case of RLS. She was also diagnosed with short term amensia at 18 yrs old. I use a lot of sensory strategies to avoid the meds they push for that Good luck to you and your daughter and thanks for getting the word. Your email address will not be published. Don't subscribe All Replies to my comments Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.
You can also subscribe without commenting. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Get inspired, plan your meals, or just copy the done for you meal ideas with this awesome printable for toddlers and babies! Catherine on July 15, at am. Many toddlers are very active. At what point should a parent take their toddler to an OT? Your Kids Table Team on July 16, at am. Catherine on July 14, at am. Your Kids Table Team on July 14, at am. Best, Desiree Reply.
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