12 common signs of ADHD in children.
Self-Focused Behavior
A common sign of ADHD is what looks like an inability to recognize other people’s needs and desires. This can lead to the next two signs.
Interrupting
Self-focused behavior may cause a child with ADHD to interrupt others while they’re talking or butt into conversations or games they’re not part of.
Trouble Waiting Their Turn
Kids with ADHD may have trouble waiting their turn during classroom activities or when playing games with other children.
Emotional Turmoil
A child with ADHD may have trouble keeping their emotions in check. They may have outbursts of anger at inappropriate times. Younger children may have temper tantrums.
Fidgetiness
Children with ADHD often can’t sit still. They may try to get up and run around, fidget, or squirm in their chair when forced to sit.
Unfinished Tasks
A child with ADHD may show interest in lots of different things, but they may have problems finishing them. For example, they may start projects, chores, or homework, but move on to the next thing that catches their interest before finishing.
Lack of Focus
A child with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, even when someone is speaking directly to them. They’ll say they heard you, but they won’t be able to repeat back to you what you just said.
Avoidance of Tasks Needing Extended Mental Effort
This same lack of focus can cause a child to avoid activities that require a sustained mental effort, such as paying attention in class or doing homework.
Mistakes
Children with ADHD can have trouble following instructions that require planning or executing a plan. This can then lead to careless mistakes, but it doesn’t indicate laziness or a lack of intelligence.
Daydreaming
Children with ADHD aren’t always rambunctious and loud. Another sign of ADHD is being quieter and less involved than other kids. A child with ADHD may stare into space, daydream, and ignore what’s going on around them.
Trouble Getting Organized
A child with ADHD may have trouble keeping track of tasks and activities. This may cause problems at school, as they can find it hard to prioritize homework, school projects, and other assignments.
Forgetfulness
Kids with ADHD may be forgetful in daily activities. They may forget to do chores or their homework. They may also lose things often, such as toys.
