At What Age Do Signs of ADHD Appear in Children?
Sometimes it can be a little confusing when you’re trying to learn about when to start screening your child for signs of ADHD. Most parents don’t notice the signs of this condition in their child until their child begins attending school, but did you know that children as young as toddler age can be screened for ADHD? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a child with this condition can be diagnosed as early as the age of 4.
You might be thinking, “What signs should I look for? I thought all young children are active.” Children with ADHD might cut in line, stay so active that they don’t take naps, or even talk excessively. They may refuse to sit still even at a meal. How often and how long these children are extremely active is the main indicator of whether or not they may have ADHD.
Even though most toddlers and preschoolers are active, every young child needs to rest from time to time. In children who may have this condition, excessive hyperactivity and inattentiveness occur on a very regular basis, often multiple times a day. In another post, we discuss some ways to help you decide if your child needs to see an ADHD specialist.
Many parents and caregivers may suspect that a child may have ADHD. However, a child must be screened by a pediatrician in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis. When ADHD is treated early on, your child is less likely to experience chronic frustration at school and at home and the more quickly you as the parent will feel capable of communicating more effectively with your child.
To see our ADHD specialist, set up an appointment today and we can help you and your child!