Every child can be energetic or distracted from time to time. But when a child's inattention, impulsivity, or activity level consistently gets in the way of learning and daily life, it may be a sign of ADHD.
ADHD is not about being naughty or having a bad parent. It's a difference in how the brain manages attention, impulse control, and activity.
The Three Types
1. Inattentive ADHD - mainly struggles with focus, not hyperactivity (often missed, especially in girls)
2. Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD - fidgets, interrupts, can't wait their turn
3. Combined type - both inattention and hyperactivity (most common)
Common Signs
• Difficulty staying on task - starts projects but doesn't finish them
• Loses things constantly (pencils, homework, shoes)
• Acts before thinking - blurts out answers, runs into the road
• Can't sit still, constantly moving
• Very emotional - big reactions, slow to calm down
• Struggles with following multi-step instructions
• BUT can hyperfocus on things they love
ADHD looks different at home vs school. A child who "behaves fine at home" can still have ADHD, and vice versa.
If these signs have been present for more than 6 months and in more than one setting, ask your doctor about an ADHD evaluation.