ADHD, in the past, was often referred to as ADD, also known as attention deficit disorder. Because its characteristics include inattention along with hyperactivity-impulsive behavior, ADD is now known as ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to MayoClinic.com. While three main categories of symptoms exist, most children tend to fall more under one category, although it is possible for them to experience symptoms from one or more categories. Most children receive a diagnosis by the age of seven, however, symptoms can appear much earlier.
Hyperactivity
The most obvious sign of ADHD, as HelpGuide.org explains, is hyperactivity. It is completely natural for young children to be active, but at some point they slow down. A child with ADHD is constantly moving. Not only does a child with this disorder move from one activity to the next, he tends to touch and play with anything in his sight or reach. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that a three-year-old with ADHD has trouble sitting still at the dinner table, and when made to, will bounce his leg, tap his foot or fidget in his seat until he is able to run again. A child learning to talk may talk incessantly. Parents who attempt to do quiet activities with their child, such as coloring or reading him a bedtime story, may find that their child is unable to be still or quiet during these moments.
Symptoms of Inattention
A child who suffers from inattention is unable to focus and becomes easily distracted, switching often from one activity to another. This is especially true when she considers the activity to be boring. Parents may notice that if it is an activity she enjoys though, her full attention will remain centered upon it, as HelpGuide.org explains. She has a difficult time following instructions such as picking up her toys, and does not appear to listen when being spoken to. She may also tend to lose objects frequently, even if they her favorite play things.
Signs of Impulsivity
The National Institute of Health points out that a child with ADHD may be very impatient, which is a sign of impulsivity. When taken to the park, he will attempt to force his way through the line of other children waiting their turn for the slide rather than waiting his own turn. The same applies at home. He may ask for a snack or drink and become angry if he does not get what he wants immediately. This lack of patience may lead to angry outbursts or demonstrating their emotions without thinking of the consequences.
Interrupting others' conversations is also common, and he may need to be reprimanded repeatedly for this action before learning how to control himself. In addition, he may speak inappropriately to another. If he believes someone is overweight, he may simply tell them without any regard for their feelings. HelpGuide.org further adds that children with this symptom of ADHD also tend to ask other people extremely personal questions, whether or not he knows them.
