Do you ever notice your child constantly fidgeting, struggling to concentrate, or acting on impulse without thinking? Are they bright and energetic, but struggle to follow instructions or finishing school tasks? If so, don’t overlook this – your child might not just be misbehaved, naughty or disobedient. There is more beneath the surface – and it might be ADHD.Â
Every child deserves the support they need to thrive. A very common but often misunderstood developmental condition affecting children today is ADHD – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It has been found that the symptoms usually start before the age of 12; in some children, they can even be seen as early as 3 years of age. It is important to be aware and informed about this, as it can make a life-changing difference for a child who is struggling. When recognised early and supported effectively, children with ADHD can reach their full potential.
Recognising the Signs: High Energy or ADHD?
It is completely normal for children to have lots of energy, forget things from time to time, or struggle to sit completely still – the answer isn’t always going to be some deeper meaning. But for some children, these behaviours are more than just a phase, and it is important to learn how to spot the traits.
There are 3 types of ADHD:Â
1. Inattentive: most symptoms fall under this – it means getting in trouble and struggling to stay in focus or on task.
2. Impulsive: most symptoms involve being hyperactive and impulsive. This means having too much energy, being disruptive or acting without thinking of the consequences.
3. Combined: this is a mix of inattentive symptoms and impulsive symptoms.
Some common signs of ADHD in children:
- Difficulty staying focused on tasks or instructions, even ones they enjoy.
- Frequently losing items like toys or homework.
- Not listening even when spoken to directly.
- Struggling to follow through on instructions or finishing tasks.
- Easily distracted by unrelated sights or sounds.
- Struggling to stay organised or manage time.
Now that you’ve become informed on what to look out for in your childs behaviour, it is important to take the next step – which is taking the time to figure out what you can do to support them. This is necessary for their development and learning, as it has been proved that children with ADHD are more vulnerable to many risk factors of low school attendance, including bullying, low academic attainment and social isolation – helping to explain why rates of school absences in 5-19 year olds with ADHD are higher compared to students without the disorder. If you notice your teenager showing some of these symptoms – it isn’t too late to support them.
How Is ADHD Diagnosed and Treated?Â
If you think your child has ADHD, you can seek help with a doctor. The visit will include questions about your child’s health, behaviour and activity. Doctors will diagnose ADHD for many reasons, such as a childs hyperactivity or impulsivity, as well as considering outside factors such as if they’ve behaved this way since they were young, and how they behave in school compared to at home.
ADHD is very common, with studies showing it affects 2.5%-4% of adults, and only a small percentage receiving necessary care. For many, untreated ADHD can potentially lead to various negative consequences – this is why it is important to recognise the signs early and seek support as soon as possible. Treatment for ADHD usually includes medicine, behaviour therapy, parent coaching, and school support.
How Can I Support my Child Further?
 You’ve taken the first step of supporting your child, which is initially having the understanding of what ADHD is in general, the symptoms, as well potentially taking the leap of seeking professional help and diagnosis. Now, the most important step is to actively support your child – it’s imperative that you provide consistent and compassionate guidance to show your child that they’re not alone. Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Be understanding: one of the worst ways to deal with your childs ADHD is to be angry or frustrated – remember that it isn’t something they can help.
- Build healthy routines: plan the day so your child knows what to expect. This will prevent any irritation or anxiety caused by sudden changes or unexpected events.
- Create a calm and organised space: designate a quiet, clutter-free area for your child to be able to relax and focus in, with minimised distractions so they can focus on homework or their own tasks.
- Positive reinforcement: with children, it’s especially important that they have approval from the people they look up to most – celebrating their efforts builds their confidence.
- Work with their school: many schools have counsellors, special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs) and tailored learning plans to help children succeed academically and socially. Our free one-to-one counselling sessions in schools are proving to be a vital resource, offering a safe space for children to talk, process their emotions, and develop coping strategies. Encourage your child to speak to someone they trust at school – whether it’s a teacher, a counsellor, or a learning mentor – so they feel heard, supported, and empowered.
ADHD in Teenagers
If you are only just recognising symptoms of ADHD in your teenager, it is important to remember their needs may be changing, meaning the support you would usually offer a child might not be enough for them.
1. Build independence: as teenagers transition into adulthood, they want to build confidence and self-esteem. Respect their maturity and avoid making them feel ‘childish’, empowering them to manage their ADHD.
2. Understand new challenges: be open with them and let them know you are a safe space to express any concerns they may have about new life experiences and challenges – help them plan ahead for things they find challenging, helping to control their ADHD.
3. Support transitions: changes like leaving school or starting university might feel challenging, and trigger one symptom of ADHD being anxiety caused by big life changes.
A Positive Path Forward
ADHD can present unique challenges, but with the right understanding, support, and early intervention, children and teenagers can succeed in both their learning and personal growth. Whether its creating calm routines at home, working closely with schools, or offering patience and encouragement, small actions can make a big difference. If you’re a parent or carer, you’re not alone – ADHD doesn’t define your child. With the right understanding and care, they can achieve their full potential.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889
https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-programme-update/#:~:text=The%20National%20Institute%20for%20Health,Initial%20findings
https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bjep.12613
https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/mental-illnesses-and-mental-health-problems/adhd-in-adults#:~:text=If%20someone%20has%20ADHD%20that,common%20in%20people%20who%20have:
