Understanding your child's ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, usually shortened to ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental condition. This means that there are differences in the way a person's brain develops and functions. ADHD can affect attention, activity levels, impulse control, organisation and emotional regulation.
Every child with ADHD is different. Some children may appear very active and impulsive, while others may mainly struggle with concentration, organisation or remembering instructions. Some children experience a combination of these difficulties.
What might ADHD look like?
A child with ADHD might:
- find it difficult to concentrate on something that does not hold their interest
- become distracted easily
- lose or forget things frequently
- struggle to organise themselves
- find it difficult to start or complete tasks
- have difficulty following several instructions at once
- act or speak before thinking
- find waiting difficult
- feel restless or need to move frequently
- experience strong emotions or become overwhelmed
- concentrate intensely on activities they find particularly interesting
Having some of these characteristics does not automatically mean that a child has ADHD. An assessment looks at the overall pattern of difficulties, their impact on everyday life and information from different parts of a child's life.
ADHD is not simply 'bad behaviour'
Children with ADHD may sometimes be described as lazy, naughty, disruptive or not trying hard enough. Usually, this does not reflect what is really happening.
A child may genuinely want to concentrate, remember their homework or stay calm but find these things much harder than other children. Understanding why something is difficult can help adults move from 'Why won't they do this?' to 'What could help them do this?'.
Children with ADHD have strengths too
ADHD should never become a child's entire identity. Children and young people with ADHD can have many individual strengths. The important thing is to understand the whole child, recognise where they need support and help them develop confidence in the things they do well.
This article is general educational information and does not replace individual medical advice. If you are worried about your child, speak to a qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency call 999, or NHS 111 for urgent advice.
To discuss your child, call 01926 624 235 or send us an enquiry.