What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder?
ADHD is when a child or teenager can’t pay attention or struggles to be still and quiet.
Does your child have ADHD/ADD?
If your child does most of the things under either Inattention or Hyperactivity (below), a lot more so than other kids their age, then you should consider having them assessed by a psychologist.
Inattention
- often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities
- often has difficulty concentrating in tasks or play activities
- often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
- often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties
- often has difficulty organising tasks and activities
- often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require long times of mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)
- often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools)
- is often easily distracted
- is often forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactivity
- often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
- often leaves seat in classroom or in other places where they are meant to stay sitting
- often runs around or climbs in situations where they shouldn’t do those things
- struggles to play or relax quietly
- is often ‘on the go’ or often acts as if ‘driven by a motor’
- often talks too much
Impulsivity
- often blurts out answers before questions have been finished
- often struggles to wait their turn
- often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)
