According to the Mayo Clinic, children who have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, are both inattentive and demonstrate hyperactive behavior. This condition is most frequently diagnosed before age 7 years, and sometimes signs and symptoms are seen during infancy. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry explains that diagnosing ADHD in toddlers can be difficult because it is in a toddler’s nature to be busy and very active with a short attention span.
Constant Motion
Toddlers with ADHD move constantly and often lack a purpose for their movements and actions. These children may have trouble finishing meals at the family dinner table, fidget constantly and jump from activity to activity. They are constantly in motion.
Disruptive
Toddlers with ADHD are disruptive in public settings. Children may be difficult in preschool, church nurseries or daycare. They often talk constantly without really talking to anyone or about anything. Toddlers with ADHD may also not be able to play quietly even though at this age, toddlers tend to play beside each other instead of with each other.
Tantrums
Temper tantrums are common in toddlers with ADHD, and they may also exhibit signs of aggression. Although it is common for toddlers to test boundaries and limits, throwing tantrums when they don’t get their way, toddlers with ADHD throw more frequent tantrums and are often difficult to manage. These toddlers may also hit others or throw toys when upset, leading to dangerous behavior where other children are concerned.
Development
Developmentally, toddlers with ADHD are more clumsy than normal. They lack the development of fine motor skills, and their language development may be slowed as well. Toddlers with ADHD may also have difficulty sleeping, both falling asleep and staying asleep.
