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Signs of ADD in 9-Year-Olds

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is one of the most common childhood behavioral and mental disorders, and affects millions of children between the ages of 5 and 17. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the term "ADD" is no longer widely used; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a more commonly used term for the condition. It is typically diagnosed in childhood, and often affects people throughout adulthood.

  1. Hyperactivity

    • Hyperactivity is one of the most common and obvious signs of ADD in children 7 years of age and older. According to Helpguide.org, children with hyperactivity often have a difficult time sitting still or playing quietly. You may notice that your 9-year-old is constantly fidgeting with things or squirming in his seat when he should be sitting still. He may be restless, move constantly or talk excessively. In class, your child may feel the need to tap his hands and feet, or leave his seat at inappropriate times.

    Inattention

    • Inattention is often a sign of ADD in 9-year-olds. Children who are inattentive have a hard time focusing on tasks and conversations that are of little interest to them. They're also easily distracted and have trouble remembering or paying attention to details and instructions, reports the CDC. Children with inattention often make careless mistakes, and may struggle with homework, school assignments, chores and other tasks. You may also notice that your 9-year-old has great difficulty staying organized and often misplaces clothing, toys and school books. According to the Mayo Clinic, girls with ADD/ADHD are more likely to display inattention, while boys typically exhibit hyperactivity.

    Impulsivity

    • Impulsivity may be a sign of ADD in 9-year-olds. A child who's impulsive has a hard time controlling herself or thinking before she acts. You may notice that your child often interrupts others or has trouble waiting her turn, reports the Mayo Clinic. Children with ADD often find it difficult to practice restraint, and commonly make inappropriate comments or act with disregard of consequences. Impulsivity in 9-year-olds may also result in angry outbursts and physical violence against other children.

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