Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children

What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children?

ADHD is a neurological condition, which means that it has to do with how the brain works. The front part of our brain controls executive function skills, like planning and paying attention. A child with ADHD may face challenges with these skills.

ADHD symptoms usually start before age 12 and may be noticeable as early as age three. Symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe.

Risk factors

Both boys and girls can have ADHD, but it is diagnosed more in boys. Children who have trouble focusing (inattentive) may be less likely to get diagnosed than those who can’t sit still (hyperactive).

Learning disabilities

Children with ADHD often have a higher risk of learning disabilities, and they may have trouble making friends. If they can stay attentive while they are growing up and learn important academic and social skills, they can start adulthood well prepared.

What are the different types of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children?

• Predominantly inattentive presentation - A child with this type of ADHD has a hard time focusing and following through on things.

• Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation - A child with this type of ADHD has a hard time being still and patient.

• Combined presentation - A child with combined presentation ADHD has symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.

What are the signs and symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children?

Children who have predominantly inattentive ADHD may:

• Overlook details

• Have their attention wander from activities or tasks

• Have trouble following instructions or finishing schoolwork, chores or other tasks

• Seem not to be listening, even when spoken to directly

• Appear easily distracted and forgetful

• Face challenges organizing tasks and activities

• Make careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work or in other activities

• Avoid or dislike tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time, including schoolwork

Children who have predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may:

• Be constantly moving and “on the go”

• Have a hard time waiting their turn

• Interrupt or intrude on others’ activities or conversations

• Leave their seat or squirm in place, even when asked to stay still

• Blurt out an answer before someone is done asking a question

• Talk too much

• Have trouble being quiet when playing or doing an activity

• Tap or fidget with their hands and feet

• Run around or climb in situations when it’s not appropriate

How is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children diagnosed?

Parents or teachers often refer children to our team. To be diagnosed with ADHD, a child must have symptoms for at least six months, and the symptoms must occur in different settings, such as at home and school.

To diagnose ADHD, we work closely with children and their families to do a complete cognitive evaluation. During this evaluation, we will use age-appropriate games and activities to look at your child’s ability to pay attention. We will also assess whether they have any learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, that might not have been noticed before.

We also use psychometric tests, such as Conner’s rating scale, which asks questions about a child’s social, behavioral and academic experiences. Other tests can assess a child's degree of attention or impulse control. We take the time to do full evaluations and to get an in-depth understanding of the child – and of the family's perspective of what the issues are.

What are the causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children?

The exact causes of ADHD aren’t fully understood. The condition tends to run in families and may be inherited. A stressful environment may help trigger ADHD in a child, and research suggests that some toxic exposures, including lead, may play a role.

How is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children treated?

Although treatment cannot cure ADHD, it can help manage symptoms. At Children’s Health, we work with families to support kids with this condition in several ways.

First, we work with families on making the home and school environments predictable and supportive.

• At home, a child with ADHD may need consistent routines and good sleep habits.

• At school, a child may need accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to help create an environment that can support attention and foster self-esteem.

Second, we work with each family to provide the most useful treatment, such as helping a child develop social skills or referring them for counseling for behavioral concerns. We try to be sure that children limit screen time and get as much physical activity as they need.

Third, once the environment and therapeutics are in place, we may consider carefully adding needed medications, if the family feels that this approach would be useful.

Overall, our team will partner closely with your family and child to help you decide what steps to take so that your child can acquire the social and academic skills that they need while growing up.