ADHD Warning Signs
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a is a catch-all description of behaviors that contribute to learning disability in children. Children with ADHD have difficulty paying attention in most of their daily activities.
Symptoms of ADHD tends to be more common in boys and 4% to 12% of school-age children exhibit them. It is diagnosed after six or more specific symptoms of inactivity and/or hyperactivity is exhibited by the child. It should be on a regular basis in a period of more than six months and it has to be in more than two settings.
ADHD diagnosis is done through standard guidelines where information from several sources is gathered. These sources should have first hand knowledge of the child and would often include school, caregivers and family.
An inattentive child may have ADHD if he/she has more than six of the following symptoms:
Can’t follow simple directions.
Cannot concentrate for any length of time whether in school, at home or in extra curricular activities.
Misplaces things often.
Listening ability is poor.
Attention to detail is lacking.
Always seems unorganized.
Cannot seem to see a project through to the end.
Distracted easily and often.
Memory is not very good.
A hyperactive/impulsive child may have ADHD if he/she has more than at least six of the following symptoms.
Always fidgeting and can’t sit still.
Runs and climbs with careless abandon.
Has difficulty playing quietly.
Answers with screams.
Often interrupting other people.
Can’t stop talking.
Seems to be always busy and on the go.
Very impatient when waiting for his/her turn.
The above-mentioned lists do not cover all cases and warning signs of ADHD. Teachers and parents should keep close attention to any changes in a child?s behavior. Any behavior that is out of the ordinary should be in check, too.
Expert diagnosis should be sought if the above signs are present. These guidelines were made for children 6 to 12 years of age. This is because many pre-school children tend to have more symptoms only to rapidly change during pre-school years. Doctors may do vision and hearing tests for additional reference.
You may want to contact your pediatrician to conduct an assessment on your child?s condition if the above warning signs are present in your childs daily behavior. After the assessment and there seems to be a cause for alarm, the pediatrician may refer you to a child psychologist.