Children and ADHD

Everybody wants to lead fulfilling lives, and we all want the same for our kids. But dealing with a youngster who simply won’t listen or follow directions can be challenging when the child has ADHD. ADHD kids frequently struggle in school and have trouble adhering to certain social norms. The ability to get along with others is facilitated by certain behaviors, such as waiting our turn to speak. Understanding your child’s requirements will help you support them as they develop their own special methods to thrive. Learn more about ADHD in this article, along with suggestions for supporting your child.

What Is ADHD in Children?

A neurodevelopmental disorder called ADHD is characterized by impulsivity, hyperactivity, and/or inattention. Following a diagnosis, multiple subtypes of ADHD are identified. The Predominantly Inattentive Presentation subtype is the most prevalent, and it is characterized by symptoms that are mostly connected to attention issues. The Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive appearance is less common but is nevertheless possible. These kids appear to behave on impulse and are constantly moving. The Combined subtype, in conclusion, exhibits signs of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. These kids are most frequently sent for treatment because they have a hard time fitting in with our society’s norms.

Children and ADHD

How do I know if my child has ADHD is a popular query. This makes logical given that youngsters frequently have attention issues, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Many young toddlers are animated, easily distracted, and have a difficult time waiting their turn. However, kids with ADHD frequently struggle with these issues, and their behaviors make it challenging for them to do daily tasks at home and at school.

Children’s ADHD Symptoms Children’s ADHD symptoms can either be classified as inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive. Symptoms often start before the age of 12 and, if untreated, may last until adulthood. Boys are more frequently diagnosed with ADHD because they frequently exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity. However, girls are more likely to be inattentive, which may go undiagnosed or be mistaken for another mental health issue.

Inattention Symptoms

• Pays little attention to detail and frequently makes thoughtless blunders
• Has trouble maintaining concentrate on jobs or activities
• When spoken to directly, it seems if their minds are elsewhere
• Lacks organization and frequently misplaces objects
• Is unable to follow directions or complete duties
• Avoids tasks that need for a lot of thought and time
• Is easily sidetracked
• And is forgetful.

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms

• Fidgets or squirms
• Cannot sit still when required
• Cannot keep still for long periods of time and/or feels restless frequently
• Struggles to play quietly
• Chats excessively
• Blurts out replies to queries
• Interrupts discussions
• Struggles to wait their turn
• Struggles to wait for rewards.

How to Support an ADHD Child

An outgoing and intelligent 8-year-old boy named Jack. His instructor at school has said that he is fidgety and frequently requires reminders to keep focused on his assignments. Additionally, he answers questions incoherently and cuts off other kids when they are speaking. When his teacher tries to speak to him, Jack’s mind seems to be elsewhere, and frequently he is unaware of what she was talking about just moments earlier.

Jack’s parents have seen that he frequently overlooks tasks and procedures at home. He loses stuff frequently, is disorganized, and is messy. He also argues when instructed what to do and doesn’t want to follow directions.

Many of these behaviors may be seen in Jack, yet he claims he “can’t stop” or “can’t help it.” He regrets that he has difficulties when other children his age do not. Eduardo’s academic performance and his bond with his parents are deteriorating.

Can a child get past their ADHD?

The good news is that your child with ADHD is not destined for a rough existence. Your child can lead a happy and successful life both within and outside the family with the right treatment, coping mechanisms, and accommodations. Each situation is unique, but treatment for ADHD may combine medication, therapy, and parental and educational support.

Child psychologists do Psychoeducational Assessments to determine whether a kid satisfies the criteria for the diagnosis of ADHD and any other learning disorders or disorders connected with ADHD. Feedback and suggestions for therapy, parent and educational support are given after the diagnosis.

A family physician may occasionally recommend drugs for the child to take in addition to their therapy. While medicine can help control daily symptoms, behavioral therapy is a critical component of care to assist kids in altering the behaviors that are contributing to their troubles. Your child can benefit from therapy if they want to learn how to control their emotions, stay organized and focused, follow a schedule, and adopt more socially acceptable behaviors (e.g., waiting for their turn). Both their self-esteem and their interpersonal relationships will benefit from this. A therapist can also provide parents with tried-and-true methods for supporting their children with ADHD and enhancing their parent-child bond.

Here are few certified therapists who you can get in touch and book a therapy session with:

Sophie Barrett

Lynda Pabari

Nicola Keenan