Attention deficit disorder is often diagnosed in early childhood. According to Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, the onset of symptoms is typically present before the age of 7. Some children show signs of ADD as young as ages 2 years old. In order to be diagnosed with ADD, children must present symptoms for longer than six months, and symptoms must be more severe than in other children of similar age.
Inattention
Child Development Info reports that children with ADD show symptoms of inattention. They may be easily distracted or have trouble paying attention or concentrating. They may not finish a task or game they started. Children with ADD tend to jump from one activity to another because of their inability to stay focused on one thing. They may fail to follow instructions, be forgetful or be unorganized.
Impulsivity
Symptoms of impulsivity in children with ADD include acting without thinking of the consequences or excessively shifting from one activity to another, according to Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Other symptoms include speaking out in class and not waiting to take turns in a group. Impulsive children may interrupt or intrude upon others.
Emotional Instability
Children with ADD show signs of emotional instability. Child Development Info reports that symptoms of emotional instability include fighting with others and exhibiting angry outbursts. Children may be loners or be overly sensitive to criticism. They may blame others for their problems or have mood swings.
