Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Children

ADHD symptoms typically appear before the age of 12, and in some children, they're noticeable as early as 5 years of age. Signs of ADHD can be present in children at this age, but the disorder cannot be diagnosed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual prior to the age of 7 years. ADHD symptoms can be categorized into two types of concerns: inattentiveness (difficulty in focusing and staying on task) and hyperactivity-impulsivity (excessive movement and impulsive actions that occur with less thought or reflection).

Inattentiveness

• Lack of Focus: Difficulty in sustaining attention on tasks or routine activities.
• Avoidance of Tasks Requiring Sustained Mental Effort: This includes chores, aspects of routine, and school assignments.
• Forgetfulness: In daily activities, even in those the child engages in regularly.
• Difficulty Following Instructions: Struggling to complete schoolwork, chores, or other responsibilities.
• Disorganization: Trouble planning and organizing tasks and activities.

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity

• Fidgeting: Tapping hands or feet, squirming in seat.
• Inability to Stay Seated: In the classroom or in other situations where remaining seated is expected.
• Running or Climbing at Inappropriate Times: An inner restlessness in adults.
• Inability to Play Quietly: Always "on the go" as if driven by a motor.
• Interrupting: Blurting out answers before a question has been completed, finishing other people's sentences, and difficulty waiting for one's turn in conversation.

Parenting a Child with ADHD

Parenting a child with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right support and knowledge, it's also incredibly rewarding. Effective parenting strategies can significantly mitigate the symptoms of ADHD and help your child thrive. Here are some strategies that parents often learn about in therapeutic support with their children:

• Establish Routine and Structure: Predictable routines provide a framework of security for children with ADHD.

• Set Clear Expectations and Rules: Children with ADHD benefit from knowing exactly what is expected of them.

• Encouraging Your Child and Looking for the Positive: Avoid punishment for behavior, but instead find positive and encouraging strategies to build your child's self esteem and scaffolded skills.

• Enjoy Sensory and Physical Activity: Learning about your child's sensory needs and which sensory activities help them to feel physically alert and comfortable can help manage symptoms of ADHD.

• Foster a Supportive Learning Environment: Work with teachers and school staff to accommodate and support your child's learning needs.

Therapy for ADHD

Treatment for ADHD might involve therapy, education or training, or a mixture of these. Some families, depending on the child's age and other factors, consider working with a psychiatrist to discuss medication or non-medication alternatives. Most children with ADHD could benefit from school accommodation or working with a learning specialist. Here's a closer look at therapy options:

• Educational Therapy: This aims to help your child navigate school with specific learning strategies tailored to the way your child's mind learns and processes information.

• Parent Training and Family Therapy: These programs educate parents and family members about ADHD and provide strategies for parenting your specific child's unique needs.

• Social Support and Friendship Groups: This helps children make friends and enjoy relationships in an affirming setting with a helpful therapist.

• Executive Function (EF) or ADHD Coaching: For older children, EF/ADHD Coaching can help build the foundational skills to gain independence and better emotional balance.

• Medication: In some cases, medication may be recommended as part of the treatment plan, typically for older children or teens, and in conjunction with therapy.