As a parent, it can be difficult to see your child struggle, especially when you know they are so very capable. If your child is suffering with a learning disorder, or has a behavioral disorder that is prohibiting their learning and growth, it can be even more of a struggle. If you suspect your child has any such struggles, you should bring them up to your child's pediatrician/physician, as well as your child's school so your child can be evaluated and you can figure out what type of help your child needs in order to succeed now and throughout life. Read on for a few signs that may indicate your child has ADHD.
1. Inability To Sit Still
A lot of children have a hard time sitting still, but if your child can't sit through a movie, can't sit still through dinner, or can't sit still long enough to even play a game, it could be that your child has ADHD. Your child may not be capable of sitting still for too long and thus need to get up to move around. Your child may also fidget a lot or squirm, which indicates this inability to sit still as well. If your child is school-aged, your child may have a hard time sitting long enough in class in order to listen to his teacher.
2. Inability To Stay On Task (Or Avoiding Tasks)
Some children forget what they are doing and may get easily distracted, but if it is occurring all the time, it could be ADHD. If your child is already playing a game, but sees children playing a different game, a child with ADHD may have a hard time concentrating on the game he is already playing because of the other one going on next to him. Your child may have a hard time staying on task for simple things as well, such as if you give your child a task and your child very easily "forgets" and does a different task, this can also be a sign of ADHD. Your child may be avoiding the task by doing something else instead.
3. Bursts Of Anger Or Temper Tantrums
All kids have their turn having a temper tantrum, but some kids display these tantrums differently than others. If your child has temper tantrums that mix with fits of anger and rage, or shows aggression, it may be ADHD. This is especially true if your child is older and is still experiencing these tantrums or the fits of anger/rage are worsening.
These are just a few of the signs that your child could have ADHD. If you suspect your child may have ADHD, you should consult your child's physician to have an evaluation done to know for sure. After this, you can look at all ADHD treatment options to help your child.