Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that usually appears during childhood. Millions of children have been diagnosed with ADHD, and in many cases, the symptoms persist into adulthood.
At Nevada Pediatric Specialists in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada, our team offers patient-centered ADHD treatment, focusing on helping kids manage their symptoms and succeed in school, at home, and in social settings. ADHD screening helps identify the disorder early.
Here are four common signs that your child might benefit from being screened for ADHD.
Kids with ADHD frequently have difficulty concentrating and paying attention in school and in other settings. You may notice that your child daydreams a lot or has trouble focusing on schoolwork and finishing it.
Many kids are easily distracted, especially when performing tasks that require a lot of focus or involve repetitive activities. Difficulty staying on track can have a big impact on grades; even though your child is perfectly capable of achieving good or even high marks, they may fall short of their goals simply because they can’t stay focused on the tasks they need to complete.
Kids with ADHD often have problems with organization, leading to messy bedrooms and backpacks. You might find that your child frequently misplaces things, like homework, sports gear, eyeglasses, or retainers.
In addition, kids with ADHD also frequently struggle with managing their time and staying on schedule. If your child frequently misses the bus or dawdles instead of getting ready for appointments, it could be a sign of ADHD.
Many kids with ADHD have difficulty sitting still for long periods. They may fidget in class, or they may have trouble taking turns or waiting in line. Some kids may seem as though they’re almost always moving, even in class when they should be sitting still.
At school, your child may frequently leave their seat to wander around the classroom or visit with other children. When required to stay still for an extended period, they may act out or become irritable.
Impulsive behaviors are another common sign of ADHD. If your child is impulsive, they may do things without thinking about the consequences, including taking risky behaviors that could result in injury.
Kids with ADHD may interrupt conversations or blurt out answers in class. They may have problems with self-control, acting out in ways that seem rude or inappropriate.
While these are four of the most common signs of ADHD, they’re not the only ones used to make a diagnosis. The American Academy of Family Physicians website offers a complete listing of the criteria used in diagnosing ADHD so you can determine if your child has other potential symptoms as well.
ADHD can have a significant impact on your child’s ability to succeed in school and in other activities, and it can also make it difficult for them to make friends and maintain relationships. Not surprisingly, kids with ADHD are often scolded for their behavior, developing a low sense of self-esteem that can plague them for the rest of their lives.
Fortunately, there are many options when it comes to treating ADHD, including counseling and behavioral therapy and both stimulant and nonstimulant medicines. An ADHD screening features important assessment tools to help your child get the early diagnosis they need to begin treatment as soon as possible.
As a parent, you can be your child’s hero and help them get the treatment to help them be the very best they can be. If you think your child might be struggling with ADHD, call 702-457-5437 or book an appointment online with Nevada Pediatric Specialists today.
