How to Identify ADD in Children

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), now known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is a psychological disorder that displays itself by turbulent and improper conduct. More than 19 varying signs and symptoms are considered when an ADHD diagnosis is made. These symptoms are broken into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. A child afflicted with ADHD will display some or all symptoms. The patient is not only studied but those around the child are questioned as well in the diagnosing process. Those involved in the child's life, such as parents, teachers and day care staff will be involved in the diagnosis.

Instructions

Inattention

• 1

  Look for missing details or mistakes made by the child when they are doing homework or other assignments.

• 2

  Observe things like the child having problems focusing or paying attention to tasks at hand.

• 3

  Look for lack of listening when the child is addressed directly.

• 4

  Look for other signs, such as the child having trouble following through on tasks, lack of organizational skills and the avoidance of tasks that require mental output.

• 5

  Observe and note how often the child becomes easily distracted or loses objects.

• 6

  Note if the child repeatedly forgets to do tasks, even after being constantly reminded.

Hyperactivity

• 7

  Look for symptoms such as excessive fidgeting and difficulty sitting in one place.

• 8

  Observe if the child constantly stands when expected to stay seated.

• 9

  Note if the child runs a lot and climbs on top of objects when it is inappropriate to do so, such as in a classroom setting.

• 10

  Notice whether the child has problems doing tasks quietly.

• 11

  Look for whether the child talks excessively and moves around a lot, never losing energy.

Impulsivity

• 12

  Look for the child to answer questions before being asked fully by blurting out the answer.

• 13

  Observe if the child exhibits problems waiting for their turn in line or for play.

• 14

  Note if the child constantly interrupts others while in conversation.