I hear a lot about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)- what is it and what do I do if I suspect my child has ADHD?
• (Adapted from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Facts for Families) Any child may show inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, or hyperactivity at times, but the child with ADHD shows these symptoms and behaviors more frequently and severely than other children of the same age or developmental level. ADHD occurs in 3-5% of school age children. ADHD must begin before the age of seven and it can continue into adulthood. ADHD runs in families with about 25% of biological parents also having this medical condition. A child with ADHD often shows some of the following: – trouble paying attention – inattention to details and makes careless mistakes – easily distracted – loses school supplies, forgets to turn in homework – trouble finishing class work and homework – trouble listening and following multiple adult commands – blurts out answers – impatience – fidgets or squirms – leaves seat and runs about or climbs excessively – seems “on the go” – talks too much and h
