Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, which was formally referred to as attention deficit disorder or ADD, usually appears in early childhood before the age of seven, reports HelpGuide.org. Children with ADHD are constantly getting in trouble or being redirected for their lack of attention or hyperactive behaviors. The prognosis for ADHD in children is good if it is recognized and treated early as children are able to learn about and adapt to this disorder.
Step 1
Look for signs of inattention. According to HelpGuide.org, children who experience ADHD tend to have problems paying attention and are continuously jumping from task to task without completing anything. Children with ADHD may have a hard time paying attention to details and make careless mistakes, suggests HelpGuide.org. They may also be easily distracted or frequently loose or misplace items, notes HelpGuide.org.
Step 2
Notice your child's level of activity. HelpGuide.org notes that a child with ADHD is constantly moving, such as tapping her foot or drumming her fingers, and may try to do several things at once. Children with ADHD may fidget or squirm in situations where sitting quietly is expected. Look for excessive taking and a need to be always moving, reports HelpGuide.org. These signs are evidence of hyperactivity, which is a possible component of ADHD.
Step 3
Look for an inability to control his own behaviors. According to HelpGuide.org, when a child has ADHD he will demonstrate problems of self-control, such as being unable to censor himself, interrupting other's conversations, invading other's space, being tactless and asking overly personal questions. Children with ADHD may blurt out answers to questions and have difficulty waiting his turn. They may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and may display angry outburst and tantrums, reports HelpGuide.org.
Step 4
Identify whether or not your child's behaviors or symptoms occur across at least two different situations. For a child to receive a diagnosis of ADHD, the smae symptoms have to happen in at least two locations, such as home and school.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor or mental health professional to receive a full evaluation if you think your child may have symptoms of ADHD. Early identification and diagnosis is imperative to quality treatment, notes the National Mental Health Association, or NMHA. Your child's doctor should be able to verify or dispel your suspicions or ask you questions that will help you identify your child's ADHD.
