Signs of ADD in a 3-Year-Old

As behavior drastically changes in children between ages 3 and 4, it is difficult to properly diagnose the signs of ADD in subjects so young. According to the National Institute of Public Health, classifying children with ADHD is determined by three factors: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, in 3-year-olds, you have to look for extremes in these behaviors as all of these traits are normal.

Inattention

• Children who show signs of inattention tend to be easily distracted, switch activities constantly, have difficulty focusing, get bored with activities, don’t seem to listen, don’t follow instructions, have difficulty processing information as quickly as others and daydream.

Hyperactivity

• Symptoms of hyperactivity include fidgeting, squirming, talking non-stop, running around, having trouble sitting still and having trouble doing quiet activities. A 3-year-old with symptoms of hyperactivity might have trouble keeping himself entertained doing activities such as coloring.

Impulsivity

• Children who show symptoms of impulsivity may interrupt other people’s conversations, have difficulty waiting for things they want or for their turn in an activity, and can be very impatient.