Treatments Education Support By Think ADHD By Think ADHD We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary
We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, symptoms vary between patients. If in doubt, speak to a healthcare professional.
Snapshot
Recognising ADHD symptoms in children
In childhood, ADHD symptoms generally fall into three categories: inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive.
Some children may display more inattentive behaviours, such as being easily distracted, struggling to follow instructions, or having difficulty organising tasks. You might notice your child losing things often, forgetting homework or other tasks, or being unable to focus on activities that require sustained attention.
Other children may show more signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity. These kids may seem to be in constant motion – fidgeting, running, climbing, or talking non-stop. They might have trouble sitting still during meals or at school, and their impulsiveness can lead to blurting out answers or interrupting conversations.
Of course, it’s important to note that most children exhibit some of these behaviours from time to time, especially when they’re young. What sets ADHD apart is the persistence and the intensity of these behaviours, which can significantly impact your child’s daily life at school, home, or in social settings.
If you notice these patterns consistently over time, it could be worth exploring an ADHD assessment.
The impact of ADHD on school and social life
In some cases, ADHD can affect a child’s ability to excel both academically and socially. In school, children with ADHD will often struggle with completing tasks, following instructions, or staying seated during lessons. This can lead to academic difficulties or frustration for both the child and for their teachers. They may feel discouraged or labelled as “troublemakers,” an unhelpful term which can damage the child’s self-esteem.
Children with ADHD often find it difficult to take turns, share, or stay focused on group activities. They may struggle to keep friendships, or feel isolated because of misunderstandings or impulsive behaviour.
As a parent, you might feel concerned about your child’s ability to form relationships or how they’re perceived by their peers. Understanding that these struggles stem from a medical condition, rather than being a reflection of your child’s character, can help you approach the challenge of supporting your child with more patience and empathy.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis
If you suspect your child has ADHD, the first step is to seek professional advice. Start by speaking to your GP, who may refer your child for an assessment with a specialist, such as a paediatrician, psychologist, or child psychiatrist.
The assessment process typically involves a detailed look at your child’s behaviour across different settings, such as home and school, as well as a review of their developmental history.
It’s important to know that ADHD symptoms must have been present from an early age (before age 12) and need to be impacting more than one area of life, such as both school and home, to meet the criteria for diagnosis.
It’s quite likely that teachers will also be asked to provide feedback on your child’s behaviour to help the assessor develop a well-rounded picture of your child’s neurological condition and symptoms.
Though waiting times for an assessment can be long, especially in the UK, understanding your child’s needs during this period is crucial. It might help to start documenting their symptoms and the impact these have on their daily life, so that you’re well prepared for a future assessment.
How to support a child with ADHD
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, there are many ways you can support them, and while ADHD can’t be cured, symptoms can be managed through a combination of strategies and coping mechanisms, tailored to your child’s needs.
Behavioural therapy is often recommended to help a child with ADHD develop skills for managing their focus, controlling impulsive behaviours, and regulating emotions. Working with a therapist who specialises in ADHD can also provide tools to support the child more effectively at home.
At school, teachers can offer accommodations such as extra time for assignments, seating arrangements that reduce distractions, or breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. It’s worth having an open conversation with your child’s school about the support the school can offer (much the same is true if your child has either recently enrolled onto, or is about to enrol onto, a further education or university course).
Consideration should also be given as to whether an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) or Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision is appropriate. In some cases, medication may also be recommended to help your child manage their ADHD symptoms, though this decision will depend on the severity of your child’s symptoms (and also your own preferences, as it’s important to weigh the potential benefits and side effects).
As a parent, you can also make adjustments at home to create a supportive environment for your child. Clear routines, structured schedules, and positive reinforcement for completing tasks can help. Be patient with your child and celebrate their strengths – remembering that many children with ADHD are highly creative, energetic, and full of curiosity.
Concluding thoughts
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