Signs of ADHD in Children: What Parents and Carers Need to Know
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that often begins in childhood. While every child can be energetic, distracted, or impulsive at times, children with ADHD show ongoing patterns of behaviour that can affect their learning, relationships, and daily life. Understanding the signs of childhood ADHD, the signs and symptoms of childhood ADHD, and the causes of ADHD can help parents and carers recognise when extra support may be needed.
What Is Childhood ADHD?
Childhood ADHD is typically characterised by difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These behaviours are usually more noticeable before the age of 12 and appear in more than one setting, such as at home and at school. ADHD presents differently in each child, which can sometimes make it harder to recognise.
Signs of Childhood ADHD
The signs of childhood ADHD often fall into three main categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. A child may show signs from one category or a combination of all three.
Signs of Inattention
Children who struggle with inattention may:
Find it hard to concentrate on tasks or play activities
Make frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork
Appear not to listen when spoken to directly
Struggle to follow instructions or finish tasks
Frequently lose items such as books, pencils, or toys
Be easily distracted by noises or activity around them
Signs of Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity may look like:
Constant fidgeting or squirming
Difficulty staying seated in class or at mealtimes
Excessive running, climbing, or restlessness
Talking excessively, even when it is inappropriate
Difficulty engaging in quiet activities
Signs of Impulsivity
Impulsivity in children can include:
Interrupting others or blurting out answers
Difficulty waiting their turn
Acting without thinking about consequences
Intruding on other children’s games or conversations
These behaviours are persistent rather than occasional and are more intense than what is typically expected for a child’s age.
Signs and Symptoms of Childhood ADHD at Different Ages
The signs and symptoms of childhood ADHD can change as a child grows.
Preschool children may show extreme activity levels, poor impulse control, and difficulty following simple routines.
Primary school-aged children often struggle with attention in class, organisation, and completing homework.
Older children may experience problems with time management, emotional regulation, and maintaining friendships.
Recognising how symptoms evolve over time is important when considering whether a child may need assessment or support.
Causes of ADHD
Many parents ask about the causes of ADHD, and it is important to know that ADHD is not caused by poor parenting. Research suggests that ADHD has a strong biological basis.
Commonly recognised causes and contributing factors include:
Genetics – ADHD often runs in families
Brain development differences – variations in brain structure and function linked to attention and impulse control
Prenatal factors – such as exposure to smoking, alcohol, or drugs during pregnancy
Premature birth or low birth weight
Environmental factors – which may influence symptoms but are not usually the sole cause
There is no single cause of ADHD; instead, it develops through a combination of genetic and environmental influences.
When to Seek Support
If the signs and symptoms of childhood ADHD are affecting your child’s learning, behaviour, or wellbeing, it may be helpful to speak with a teacher, GP, or other qualified professional. Early identification can lead to strategies and support that help children thrive both academically and socially.
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