Most active, distracted, or impulsive children do NOT have ADHD. These behaviors are common in childhood. ADHD is diagnosed only when symptoms are severe, persistent (6+ months), and cause significant problems at school, home, AND with friends. If your child can focus on things they enjoy (like games or TV) but not on homework, that's usually normal behavior, not ADHD.
Watch: How to Know When Your Baby Is Sleepy 😴 | Baby Sleep Cues Every Parent Should Know
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a brain-based condition - the brain develops and works differently.
What ADHD is NOT caused by:
What actually contributes to ADHD:
Important: ADHD is nobody's "fault." Your child isn't choosing to behave this way - their brain works differently.
| Type | Main Features | Common Signs |
|---|---|---|
| **Primarily Inattentive** | Difficulty focusing | Daydreams, forgets things, loses items, can't follow instructions, makes careless mistakes |
| **Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive** | Can't sit still, acts without thinking | Constantly moving, talks excessively, interrupts, can't wait turn |
| **Combined** | Both above | Most common type |
| Age | Normal Behavior | May Need Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| **3-4 years** | Short attention span, very active, tantrums | Cannot focus on anything even for 3-5 minutes, constant dangerous behavior |
| **5-6 years** | Some difficulty sitting still, needs reminders | Teacher complaints, can't follow simple 2-step instructions, no friends |
| **7-10 years** | Sometimes forgetful, occasionally restless | Failing multiple subjects, constantly disruptive, impulsive accidents |
| **11-13 years** | Occasional disorganization, some moodiness | Cannot complete any assignment, extreme impulsivity, risky behavior |
See a specialist if your child has MOST of these for 6+ MONTHS:
Inattention signs:
Hyperactivity-impulsivity signs:
AND these behaviors must:
Helpful foods:
Limit these:
Children with ADHD often have sleep problems - their brain can't "switch off."
Good sleep = better attention next day!
Talk to school about:
A: Probably not. Children with ADHD CAN focus on highly stimulating, immediately rewarding activities (video games, TV). ADHD shows up when sustained attention is required on less stimulating tasks. However, if this difference is extreme and causing significant school problems, evaluation is still worthwhile.
A: This is a fear many parents have. At the correct dose, ADHD medication should help your child focus WITHOUT making them emotionless or zombie-like. If your child seems sedated, the dose may be wrong - tell your doctor. The goal is a focused, happy child, not a sedated one.
A: Yes, sleep problems are very common in ADHD. Their active brain struggles to "shut down." Poor sleep also worsens ADHD symptoms - it's a cycle. Good sleep hygiene is crucial. Some ADHD medications can affect sleep too - discuss timing and options with your doctor.
A: Reducing screen time won't "cure" ADHD, but it helps. Excessive screens can worsen attention problems in any child. For ADHD children, structured screen time limits are especially important. But reducing screens alone won't make ADHD go away.
A: Absolutely YES! Many successful entrepreneurs, athletes, artists have ADHD. ADHD comes with strengths too - creativity, energy, ability to hyperfocus on passions. With proper support, children with ADHD can thrive. The key is early identification and appropriate management.
A: There's no scientific evidence that homeopathy or Ayurveda can treat ADHD. Some herbs may have mild calming effects, but they're not proven treatments. Please don't avoid or delay evidence-based treatments while trying unproven alternatives. You can discuss complementary approaches with your doctor.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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