To be considered ADHD a child must have had the signs for more than six months and begun the behavior since before the age of 7 years. Often a child will actually begin ADHD behavior by the time they are 3 or 4 years old, but it does not become obvious until they enter school.



Some symptoms of ADHD include, a child who has difficulty staying in one place when told to do so, fidgety and easily distracted by noises, and appears to have extreme difficulty in following directions, even simple straightforward ones. Often starts working on choirs or schoolwork but does not finish it.





A child suffering from ADHD will have trouble concentrating on a project, even if they enjoy what they are doing and they often change activities without completing the activity they were already working on. For this type of child, playing quietly appears to be impossible, and they seem to talk excessively, frequently interrupting conversations that others are having.



While you talk to your child does he appear not to be listening at all? Does he tend to lose items frequently? All of these are symptoms of ADHD, but just because your child does have these symptoms does not mean that they are ADHD. Only a trained professional can diagnose ADHD for certain.



If you suspect that your child may have ADHD it is important to talk to school officials and your family doctor to determine if further testing is necessary. A child with ADHD will do poorly in school if he or she is not diagnosed and treated. ADHD is best treated with a combination of medication and behavior therapy. Any good treatment plan will require close follow-up and monitoring, and your child's doctor may make adjustments during the course of your childís treatment.



It is important for you to be very supportive of your child and especially so for an ADHD child. Be patient and try to avoid being irritable and angry with him or her. Remember they are not being bad on purpose and they need your help.



Information Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
 

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