ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which is a medical condition that affects a childs attention and self-control. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, or being overly active. Some signs of ADHD in kids include:
- Short attention span for age (difficulty sustaining attention)
- Difficulty listening to others
- Difficulty attending to details
- Easily distracted
- Forgetfulness
- Poor organizational skills for age
- Poor study skills for age
- Often interrupts others
- Acts without thinking
- Has trouble waiting their turn
- Talks too much
- Fidgets or squirms
- Cant sit still
- Runs or climbs when they shouldnt
- Acts in ways that are dangerous or inappropriate
Its normal for little kids to be distracted, restless, impatient, or impulsive, but when these things continue and begin to cause problems at school, home, and with friends, it may be ADHD. ADHD can also make it hard to do things like pay attention in class or get along with others. Many kids with ADHD also have learning problems, oppositional and defiant behaviors, or mood and anxiety problems. Doctors usually treat these along with the ADHD. Treatment for ADHD usually includes medicine and behavior therapy. Parents and teachers can teach younger kids to get better at managing their attention, behavior, and emotions. As they grow older, kids should learn to improve their own attention and self-control.
