ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a chronic condition. Its symptoms vary in severity, and although most children display these symptoms as toddlers, most parents do not seek a diagnosis until a child is in school, states the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. The sooner the symptoms are identified, the earlier treatment can be sought.
Inattention
Inattention is one of the three categories used to characterize the symptoms of ADHD, according to the Mayo Clinic. While girls tend to suffer more from inattention than boys do, it can affect both genders.
Diagnosing a toddler based on this symptom can be difficult, as many have a short attention span to begin with. However, if you notice your toddler is unable to sit through a story, constantly fidgets while watching children's shows most youngsters his age love or rushes away from the dinner table without finishing his meal, you may have cause for concern. He may also appear not to hear you when you speak directly to him or is constantly losing his favorite toy.
Impulsivity
Toddlers who are impulsive tend to have problems with self-control and keeping emotions in check. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry states that if your 3-year-old displays symptoms of impulsivity, she may be impulsive to the point of being dangerous to others and to herself. For instance, she may run into the street before you have an opportunity to take her hand, or she may grab a toy and hit another child without any provocation. When you take her to the store, she may steal a candy bar without thinking that it is wrong.
HelpGuide adds that she may interrupt other people's conversations without care or tact and have a difficult time waiting her turn when playing a game with other children.
Hyperactivity
Toddlers who display the signs of hyperactivity are not only on the go constantly, but they are also prone to severe temper tantrums when made to sit still when it is called for, such as when you take him to a restaurant. You may also find he has trouble completing tasks, such as coloring or painting, because of a lack of concentration.
His fine and gross motor skills may also be affected, causing him to be clumsier than other toddlers his age. This can result in frequent falls. His language skills may also be delayed, and he may have sleep problems, staying up well past his bedtime and into the wee hours of the morning.
