It is perfectly normal for children to daydream during a class, forget to do their homework, fidget constantly or to act without thinking. There are a lot of kids who find it difficult to sit still and just want to move. However, constant impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity are also signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This disorder is not a good one because it can lead to problems in school and at home and can have an impact on the child’s ability to get along with others and learning. The first step that should be taken to address the problem is to get your child the help they need.
How can you do that? This can only be done when you recognize the signs and symptoms of ADHD in children. These are usually divided into three categories, which are highlighted below:
Inattention
Children who are inattentive will have a very hard time in keeping their mind focused on one thing. They will start doing a task and then get bored of it in only a few minutes. It will be immensely difficult for them to focus deliberate and conscious attention to organizing and completing any tasks assigned to them. Such kids are known to forget things or lose track of them easily. You will also notice restlessness, procrastination, trouble staying seated for long periods of time, problems remembering responsibilities or starting multiple things at the same time, but finishing them rarely.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactive children seem to be constantly in motion. They are unable to sit still and will be dashing around and talking incessantly. This means that they will automatically be inattentive in class and will often cause disruptions. They will either squirm in their seats, roam around the classroom, noisily tap a pencil, touch everything possible or wiggle their feet for that matter. The disorder causes such children and even adults to feel intensely restless.
Impulsivity
Overly impulsive children are those who are unable to think before they take an action. As a result, they will end up saying inappropriate things, blurt out answers to questions without waiting for the get-go or may even run into the street without looking. Their impulsive nature makes it immensely difficult for them to wait for anything they want or to sit until it is their turn in a game. They may not be able to stop themselves from grabbing a toy from another child and if they are upset, they may even resort to fighting and hitting others. Therefore, it is not surprising to know that children with ADHD may find it very difficult to make and keep friends.
It is also important to note that ADHD may coexist with other conditions such as depression, learning disabilities, conduct disorder, anxiety and oppositional defiant disorder. Some of the symptoms of ADHD also overlap with certain medical conditions. If your child is showing any of the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, you can take an ADHD quiz online and see if you are right or worrying unnecessarily. This will save you a trip to the doctor and you will not waste your time and money.
If your child does have ADHD, it is best to look for a doctor or professional who has had experience in diagnosing and treating this disorder. Why? This is because it can be very difficult to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and you don’t want your child to suffer because of a wrong diagnosis. You can consult your family doctor and ask them to give you a recommendation as they will know of any experts in the area.
