ADHD symptoms in kids 

ADHD symptoms in kids can show up in different ways. Some children have a hard time paying attention in class or finishing their schoolwork. Others seem like they’re always moving, fidgeting, interrupting or blurting out answers before it’s their turn.

If you’ve received a note like this from your child’s teacher, it doesn’t mean your child is doing something wrong on purpose. They may be showing signs of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

ADHD can make school, friendships and daily routines more difficult. It can also affect a child’s confidence, especially if they’re often corrected for behaviors they have trouble controlling. If you think your child may have ADHD, an accurate diagnosis can help you better understand what’s going on and what support may help. 

Signs of ADHD in kids

The signs of ADHD in kids typically show up before age 12 and can range in severity. Symptoms vary based on how ADHD presents. Some children mostly struggle with attention, focus and organization. Others are more hyperactive or impulsive, meaning they may have trouble sitting still, waiting their turn or thinking before acting. Many children have a combined presentation, with symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. 

Inattentive symptoms

A child with inattentive ADHD symptoms might:

• Be easily distracted
• Dislike tasks that require focused mental attention
• Forget to do homework or chores
• Lose items frequently
• Make careless mistakes on school assignments
• Not finish schoolwork or chores
• Seem not to be listening
• Struggle to focus on tasks, including schoolwork, chores or games

Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms

A child with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms might:

• Fidget, squirm or have trouble staying seated
• Have a hard time waiting for their turn
• Move constantly, including at times when it’s not appropriate
• Struggle to play quietly
• Talk out of turn or interrupt others

Some children with ADHD may also have big emotional reactions, including anger or frustration. But anger alone doesn’t mean a child has ADHD. Many things can affect a child’s attention, behavior and emotions, including sleep, stress, anxiety, learning differences and other health concerns.

Most kids will show some of these behaviors from time to time. If you’re seeing them often — especially in more than one setting, such as at home and school — talk with your child’s healthcare provider.  

What causes ADHD in kids?

Researchers continue to study what causes ADHD in kids, but there isn’t one known cause. ADHD tends to run in families, and a child may be more likely to have ADHD if they have a blood relative with ADHD or another mental health condition.

Other factors may also increase a child’s chances of developing ADHD, including being born prematurely, exposure to environmental toxins such as lead, or prenatal exposure to alcohol, tobacco or other substances. 

How is ADHD diagnosed in kids?

ADHD in kids can lead to challenges at home and school, so it can be helpful to understand what’s behind your child’s behavior. There isn’t one simple test for ADHD. And because ADHD symptoms in kids can look like signs of other conditions, your child’s provider may evaluate your child to help rule out other possible causes.

Your child’s provider may do a medical exam, ask about your child’s behavior in different settings and gather information from parents, caregivers, teachers or other adults in your child’s life. They may also use standardized questionnaires to better understand your child’s symptoms. 

ADHD treatment for kids

There isn’t a cure for ADHD, but treatment can help reduce symptoms and make daily life more manageable. It may take time to figure out what works best for your child.

Treatment for ADHD in kids may include behavior therapy, social skills training, counseling, education services, school support or medication. Medication for ADHD in kids isn’t the right choice for every child, but it may be part of the treatment plan. Your child’s provider can talk with you about the potential benefits, risks and side effects.

ADHD can make school and everyday life more challenging. But when you can spot the signs early and get the right support, you can help your child build skills, confidence and routines that work for them.