Common Signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Kids
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically inhibits the success and relationships of children. Oftentimes, it can be difficult to recognize the symptoms of ADHD, as each child has a different experience and symptoms may vary. Children are often diagnosed by the age of 7, however, it can often go unnoticed until their teen years. If you think your child may be exhibiting symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a pediatrician in Plainview at Pediatric Associates of Plainview can offer both ADHD testing and evaluations.
What are the signs of ADHD in Kids?
Typically, symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are exhibited at an early age. Your pediatrician in Plainview will be able to address the symptoms that may go unnoticed. Some of the common signs in children are:
- Selfish behavior– Children with ADHD cannot recognize the desires and needs of others.
- Interrupting– If your child tends to interrupt conversations, this may be a sign of ADHD.
- Inability to wait their turn– When playing a game with their peers, they may find it difficult to be patient while they wait for their turn.
- Emotional instability– It’s common for a child with ADHD to have an angry outburst at an inappropriate time.
- Inability to sit still– In school, children are often sitting at their desks for long periods when they are learning. If your child is squirming or fidgeting in their seat, it could be a sign of ADHD.
- Unfinished assignments or tasks– Your child might be showing interest in many different areas, but once they start something, they may not finish it, as something else will catch their attention.
- Lack of focus– When speaking directly to your child, they may be hearing you but they may not necessarily be listening.
- Avoidance of mental tasks– This involves doing homework or learning in class.
- Daydreaming– When most people think of ADHD, they think of a child who is being loud and fidgeting, however, some children may be exhibiting quieter and less involved symptoms such as daydreaming or staring into space.
- Forgetfulness or losing their belongings– Many children may forget to do their school assignments or they may lose their toys and belongings, forgetting where they left them.
A lot of these symptoms are common, even in those who don’t have ADHD. However, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your pediatrician in Plainview if your child is regularly displaying these symptoms or if it is affecting their success in school and their friendships.
How is ADHD treated?
While the treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the opinion of your pediatrician in Plainview, there are a few different ways to treat it, such as:
- Medications
- Getting adequate sleep
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Music therapy
- Diet consisting of Omega-3 fatty acids
- Guidance from parents and teachers
If you believe your child is exhibiting signs of ADHD, schedule an appointment with a pediatrician in Plainview with Pediatric Associates of Plainview!
Telephone No.(516) 822-1400