Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. All children may present these symptoms to some degree, so it is important that the child receive a thorough examination and appropriate diagnosis by a qualified professional. In most children, the signs of ADHD appear before the age of 7, but in some children, the signs of ADHD are noticeable as early as infancy, according to the Mayo Clinic. Before a diagnosis for ADHD can be made, a doctor will assess whether the child has demonstrated inattention, hyperactivity, impulsiveness or a combination for longer than six months and in more than one setting.
Inattention
A toddler at risk for ADHD is one that has a poor attention span. This child can play with a toy for a short time but will be easily distracted if something else captures his attention. A toddler with ADHD will have a difficult time completing tasks such as completing a puzzle, paying attention to a story, playing a game or watching a cartoon. According to Jeanne Segal and Robert Segal, founders of Help Guide, a trusted nonprofit resource website that addresses mental-health issues, a child with ADHD will appear to forget things such as how to go to the potty or where he placed a toy.
Hyperactivity-Impulsiveness
Another sign of ADHD is hyperactivity and impulsiveness, according to the Baby Center, a global interactive parenting website. Toddlers with ADHD have a difficult time sitting still and being calm. A child with ADHD may constantly squirm, fidget, jump on the bed or run through the house screaming. Children with ADHD may appear to have an endless amount of energy. They are constantly on the move. In addition, toddlers with ADHD may talk excessively. These children want to be included in every conversation even if no one is talking to them. Toddlers with ADHD tend to get upset if they have to wait for something that they want such as a toy or a snack. They have little patience and get irritated and "fussy" if their needs are not fulfilled immediately.
Inattention, Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness
An early warning sign of ADHD is when a toddler demonstrates a combination of inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive behaviors for longer than six months, according to the Baby Center. Toddlers with the combination type of ADHD may have a difficult time playing quietly alone because they always want to be the center of attention. These toddlers have a tendency to daydream a lot and not pay attention to what is happening around them. Toddlers with ADHD have a hard time following directions or obeying rules and "tune out" once something bores them. These children like to climb on things and run excessively. According to Web 4 Health, a website specializing in mental-health issues, if you do not watch children with ADHD, they may run into the street impulsively. In addition, children with ADHD may cry excessively, have irregular feeding patterns and sleep disturbances.
