ADHD in Young Children
ADHD can often be difficult to identify in the Early Years as some of the traits compare to typical stages of child development. Learn how to recognise the traits of ADHD and how they might present in our youngest group of children.
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and affects 1 in 5 people in the UK. The typical age of diagnosis for ADHD is 7 years, however we can spot the signs earlier and this can be beneficial for providing the support needed in the Early Years.
What are the traits of ADHD?
There are 3 traits of ADHD including Hyperactivity, Inattention and Impulsivity. A child does not have to have all 3 traits to receive a diagnosis. It’s important to note that children in the early years, due to typical stages of child development, will demonstrate similar traits to that of ADHD however, If a child has ADHD the traits will be observed to a greater extent than their peers. You may find that the child demonstrates the traits more frequently and to a greater degree than other children their age.
What do the traits look like in young children?
Hyperactivity
Lots of energy
May experience sleep difficulties
Talkative/Vocal
May find it difficult to sit still
Impulsivity
Behaving before thinking.
Short play sequences.
Reduced risk awareness.
Likes to climb.
Inattention
Struggles to follow verbal instructions.
Forgetting things previously learnt.
Adults may often repeat child's name
What should I do if I think my child has ADHD?
If your child is at Nursery, a childminder or in school, speak to them first. The role of the early year’s professional looking after your child, is to make regular observations in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework/Development matters. These observations help them to monitor the child’s development right the way through their time at Nursery/Childminders/School.
If your child does not attend a setting, you may wish to speak to your health visitor. The Health Visiting team provide developmental checks whilst your child is 5 years and under.
Their role is to observe the child’s development and to provide you with advice and guidance.
If you and the professionals are in agreement, a referral is likely to be made to a paediatrician in your local area. The role of the Paediatrician is to make observations of the child along with gathering evidence for potential diagnosis. This may take some time as it’s important to see how the child progresses through their first seven years.
Early Years
For more information or to learn more about ADHD, please visit Early Years at the link below.