Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Signs of ADHD in Young Children

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can look different in every child, but early signs often appear in preschool or early school years. Recognizing these behaviours can help families seek support and strategies early on.

Common Signs of Inattention:

• Difficulty staying focused on tasks or play activities
• Frequently losing or misplacing items (toys, books, school supplies)
• Appearing not to listen when spoken to directly
• Trouble following instructions or completing tasks
• Easily distracted by sights, sounds, or other activities
• Difficulty organizing tasks or routines

Common Signs of Hyperactivity:

• Constant movement or fidgeting, even when seated
• Running, climbing, or moving around in situations where it’s not appropriate
• Difficulty playing quietly
• Talking excessively or interrupting others
• Seeming “on the go” or unable to relax

Common Signs of Impulsivity:

• Acting without thinking about consequences
• Difficulty waiting for their turn
• Interrupting conversations or games
• Blurting out answers before questions are finished

It’s important to remember that many young children show some of these behaviours at times. A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the frequency, intensity, and impact of these behaviours across different settings, such as home and school. 

What to Expect in an Assessment

Assessing ADHD in young children involves a comprehensive process that looks at behaviour, development, and functioning across different settings. Because many typical childhood behaviours can resemble ADHD, psychologists use multiple sources of information to ensure an accurate and thoughtful diagnosis.

1. Clinical Interviews
The process begins with detailed interviews with parents or caregivers to gather information about the child’s developmental history, daily routines, strengths, and challenges. Teachers or childcare providers may also be consulted to understand how the child behaves in structured environments.

2. Behavioural Observations
The psychologist observes the child’s attention, activity level, and impulse control during play or structured tasks. When possible, observations may also take place in the child’s school or daycare setting to see how behaviours appear in real-world contexts.

3. Standardized Questionnaires and Rating Scales
Parents and teachers complete evidence-based questionnaires that measure attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These tools help compare the child’s behaviours to those of other children the same age.

4. Cognitive and Developmental Testing
Assessments may include tasks that measure attention, memory, problem-solving, and executive functioning. These tests help identify whether difficulties are related to ADHD or other developmental or learning differences.

5. Emotional and Behavioural Assessment
Because ADHD often overlaps with other conditions such as anxiety, learning disorders, or emotional regulation challenges, psychologists assess the child’s overall emotional wellbeing and social functioning.

6. Review of School and Medical Information
Reports from teachers, paediatricians, and other professionals provide valuable context about the child’s functioning across settings and help rule out other possible causes of attention or behaviour difficulties.

7. Feedback and Diagnosis
Once all information is gathered, the psychologist reviews the findings with the family. If the criteria for ADHD are met, a diagnosis is provided along with a detailed report outlining the child’s strengths, challenges, and personalized recommendations for home and school support.

This comprehensive approach ensures that each child’s unique profile is understood, and that any interventions or strategies are tailored to their specific needs.