Warning Signs of add/adhd
If a child frequently displays many of these symptoms, their behavior is age and situation-inappropriate, and it is interfering with the child's ability to be successful in school, encourage that child's parents and teachers to learn ore about ADD/ADHD.
physical activityEither:
Can't sit still, feels restless Has boundless energy Always fidgeting, restless feet, etc. Or: Couch potato, lethargic, slow, space cadet Physically there, mentally gone Frequent mood swingsFeels emotions intensely
Higher highs and lower lows Low tolerance for frustration May have rage attacks AttentionTrouble deciding what to pay attention to
What's most important Trouble getting started on a task Often feels overwhelmed Trouble staying focused on repetitive tasks Until the task is complete Can't do homework independently Trouble shifting attention To a new task highly distractibleDistracted by any change in environment
Any noise, movement, or smell Also distracted by their own thoughts Daydreamer Can't stay focused for long Except Nintendo-type games or TV Or a new or scary activity May hyper-focus on a hobby Starts many projects But rarely finishes them impulsiveCan't wait to be called on
Blurts out answers in class Extremely impatient Difficult to wait for his/her turn Often acts before thinking Doesn't seem to learn from mistakes |
doesn't listen wellConfused by multi-step oral directions
no tolerance for boredomMay start arguments if things are too calm
time managementAlways rushing; can't slow down
Makes careless mistakes Hates to double-check Doesn't use class time well Feels rushed by teachers & parents Puts most things off until the last minute odd sleep cyclesNight owl, hates to go to bed
Difficult to wake up in the morning May be a restless sleeper Bedwetting or sleepwalking inconsistent PerformanceGood days and bad days
Some days they can do the schoolwork Other days they can't disorganizedMessy room, desk, backpack
Constantly loses or misplaces things other symptomsChatterbox; talks excessively
Interrupts conversations frequently Strong sense of justice; bossy Lots of allergies Terrible penmanship Trouble remembering daily routines Relatives with ADD |