It is normal for children to have attention and behavioral issues at times, as they are growing and learning what is acceptable from what is not. However, if your child’s attention span and behavior are causing distress and other issues, they may have ADHD.
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a condition that affects millions of children worldwide. Approximately 2.4 million children in the United States under the age of 11 have ADHD, and the figure rises to 3.3 million for those over the age of 12.
ADHD is a neuro developmental disorder that causes attention difficulty, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity. It can be difficult to spot in kids, because many signs can be understood as normal kid-like behaviors.
Pay attention to these tell-tale signs and symptoms of ADHD that parents and caregivers should look out for.
Difficulty Paying Attention
One of the most common signs of ADHD is difficulty sustaining focus on tasks or activities. Kids with ADHD may seem like they’re “zoning out” or not listening even when they know they’re hearing you.
Very Easily Distracted
Along the same lines, children with ADHD may have trouble filtering out distractions around them – whether it’s an interesting noise outside or something going on across the room, anything can grab their attention away from what they should be focusing on.
Impulsivity
Another hallmark symptom of ADHD is impulsivity – acting without thinking first about the consequences of one’s actions. This can manifest as everything from blurting out answers in class before being called upon to taking risks without considering the potential dangers involved first.
Restlessness
Kids with ADHD often have a hard time sitting still for long periods of time – they may squirm in their seats, pace back and forth, or fidget constantly with their hands and feet. This restlessness can make it tough to concentrate and get work done both at school and at home.
Disorganization
Related to impulsivity and forgetfulness, many children with ADHD have significant disorganization skills. This includes losing track of homework assignments, forgetting to bring required materials to your child‘s classroom, or not knowing where important items are kept at home.
Trouble Following Instructions
It can be frustrating for parents when their child appears not to take directions well – but this is another sign of ADHD. Kids with ADHD may find it more difficult than others to pay attention to multistep directions and remember the order in which things need to be done.
Memory Issues
Difficulty focusing and paying attention makes it hard for them to remember things and affects the organization of thought and storage of memories. Easily forgetting things that were just learned is a sign of ADHD.
Moodiness and Irritability
People living with undiagnosed ADHD may suffer from mood swings and irritability due to frustration over their unpredictable behaviors, symptoms, and challenges in completing everyday tasks. If your child has unpredictable outbursts, it could be due to ADHD.
ADHD Treatment for Kids in Spring and The Woodlands, TX
ADHD can interfere with your child’s ability to function. The well-trained pediatricians at Northwoods Pediatric Center, P.A. are highly experienced in treating children with ADHD using a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. In addition, we also provide comprehensive care, which includes guidance and support to the entire family. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, call our office today at (281) 296-7770 or use our convenient online request form.
