Early Childhood Testing for ADHD

Children who are extremely active and have great difficulty sustaining attention may have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD are not able to control impulses that manifest in acting without thinking first about the consequences.

Significance

• According to the National Health Institute, approximately 3 to 5 percent of children have ADHD.

Time Frame

• ADHD is typically diagnosed once a child reaches school age; however, some parents and physicians may notice ADHD symptoms in preschool children.

Identification

• According to Dr. Laurence Greenhill's report published by ADDitudemag.com, two predictors of ADHD in preschool children are expulsion from preschool and rejection by peers. The child may have difficulties in preschool and with peers because of aggressive and oppositional behaviors.

Considerations

• Preschoolers may be misdiagnosed with ADHD when other conditions are present. The child might have severe separation anxiety, sensory integration problems or some type of pervasive developmental disorder instead.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosis may begin with a pediatrician; however, a child psychologist may be more appropriate. Young children are usually treated with behavioral therapy. Also, parent training may be offered to the child's caregivers. Children as young as 3 may be prescribed medication; however, most medications are only approved for children over 5.