Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have problems with attention, controlling their impulses, trouble completing tasks and may be hyperactive. They often have other problems, such as learning difficulties, making friends, oppositional behaviour, anxiety and ill-health that may need to be looked into. It is hard for these children to control their behavior and./or pay attention. ADHD symptoms can be caused by a number of other problems, including learning difficulties, social issues, ill-health and other mental health issues.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of Inattention

• Fails to give close attention to details.
• Makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
• Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
• Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
• Does not follow through on instructions.
• Fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties at home.
• Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
• Avoids engaging in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as homework).
• Loses things necessary for tasks or activities (toys, school assignments, pencils or books).
• Is easily distracted by outside stimuli.
• Is forgetful in daily activities.

Symptoms of Hyperactivity

• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
• Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected (e.g. to watch a drama performance).
• Runs about or climbs too much which is often inappropriate to the situation.
• Has difficulty playing quietly.
• Is 'on the go' or acts as if 'driven by a motor'.
• Talks too much, will ask many questions that are often silly and repetitive.

Symptoms of Impulsivity

• Will shout out answers before questions have been completed.
• Has difficulty waiting his or her turn.
• Interrupts or intrudes on others (such as butting into conversations or games).