Children: Child & Teen Indicators

ADD characteristics often are first seen in early childhood and are marked by persistent problems at home or at school. ADD is complex and no two individuals present with exactly the same problems. Presenting symptoms are often unique and vary in type, number and intensity from child to child. It effects the average and gifted child alike. As the child grows older, the core symptoms may change in how they manifest themselves and new difficulties may emerge. In some instances, a child may experience relatively fewer problems early on, but the greater complexity of school or home life and need for self-reliance may expose new symptoms. These problems may be overlooked or dismissed by parents or teachers.

Some common indicators suggestive of ADD:

• Fidgeting and inability to stay seated
• Homework avoidance, delay or incompletion
• Difficulty with following rules or instructions
• Shifting from one incomplete activity to another
• Mind wandering and concentration problems
• Easily distracted
• Appearing to not listen
• Impulsive actions and poor judgment
• Restlessness and constantly on the go
• Forgetting and losing things
• Impatience and carelessness
• Difficulty with falling asleep or waking up
• Easily irritated, frustrated, upset, hurt or angered
• Difficulty in getting along with siblings or peers
• Learning problems and/or underachievement
• Disobedience, defiance or conduct problems
• Poor self-image and self-esteem
• Clumsiness and accident proneness
• Disorganization, messiness and clutter
• Poor work habits and study skills
• Bored easily
• Needing constant adult structure & supervision
• Poor time management and task prioritization