Does My Preschooler Have ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complicated neurodevelopmental disorder that can be seen as early as the preschool years. Diagnosing ADHD in preschoolers is not easy though.

Diagnosis is based on symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and a lack of impulse control. It can sometimes be hard to tell if it is typical preschool behavior or ADHD. This is why ADHD is often not diagnosed until children are school aged. If you are concerned that your preschooler may have ADHD though, you can ask yourself these questions to gain a better understanding:

1. DOES MY PRESCHOOLER NEED CONSTANT DIRECTION?

Children with ADHD struggle with executive functioning skills such as planning. Your child may have trouble playing independently and following directions. Multi-step directions are particularly difficult for preschoolers with ADHD. When giving a preschooler with ADHD directions they must be clear, simple, and direct. You must have eye contact and be very specific in the directions. Say, “Go put your shoes on,” instead of “Go get ready for outside”.

2. DOES MY PRESCHOOLER THROW TANTRUMS?

Children with ADHD often have trouble managing their emotions. This is why outbursts of anger at inappropriate times are common. They may become overly emotional while playing with their friends over the tiniest of issues. Sometimes, these tantrums can be aggressive in nature.

3. DOES MY PRESCHOOLER SEEM TO NEVER SLOW DOWN?

When a preschooler is experiencing symptoms of ADHD they are known to always be moving. They lack self control and this includes control over movements. This is especially evident at times that they should be resting. They struggle with settling down for nap time or bedtime. They may get up several times for different reasons.

4. DOES MY PRESCHOOLER AVOID DIFFICULT TASKS?

Children with ADHD frequently avoid difficult tasks, particularly ones that require greater mental effort. They may avoid learning activities, circle time, or listening to stories. If you are trying to get a child with ADHD to focus on a task, it needs to be highly interesting to the child.

5. DOES MY PRESCHOOLER DISPLAY SYMPTOMS OF ADHD IN MULTIPLE SETTINGS?

Children who have ADHD display symptoms in multiple settings. This means that if your child does in fact have ADHD you would see these behaviors at home, school or daycare, and other settings.

Diagnosing ADHD in preschool aged children is more difficult than in older children, but if you are concerned that your preschooler may have ADHD it is important that you reach out to a qualified pediatric mental health professional. It can be rather overwhelming, but there is no reason to panic. With appropriate treatment, children with ADHD do well.