Child
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Child ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
Overview
Child ADHD is more than daydreaming during class, getting fidgety at the dinner table, or struggling to follow their parents’ and teachers’ instructions. Frequent hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsive behavior may be signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a common neurodevelopmental disorder that usually appears in childhood.
Children with ADHD struggle to inhibit their responses. Sometimes they are labeled as troublemakers, undisciplined, lazy, or “spacey” because it can be difficult to distinguish between child/teen ADHD symptoms and typical “kid behavior.” If your child’s inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are due to ADHD, they can become worse if left untreated. Fortunately, with the right support system in place, your child can get on track for success.
What is Adolescent ADHD?
Adolescent ADHD makes it exceptionally difficult for children to sit still, pay attention, concentrate on tasks, follow directions, and control impulsive behavior. Though these things may seem like common childhood problems, kids with ADHD behave this way significantly more often than other kids their age. The inability to focus, settle down, or follow through on tasks in an age-appropriate manner can make it challenging for children with ADHD to do what is expected of them at school or home. It can also lead to conflicts with parents, teachers, and peers.
Restlessness and distraction are often the first symptoms that come to mind when parents think of ADHD. However, that is not how it presents in all cases. Some children with ADHD have no difficulty focusing intensely on exciting things, such as video games, but cannot maintain the same level of focus on things they don't seem as fun or rewarding. This intense concentration or "hyperfocus" is the reason some children with ADHD get upset when asked to stop doing an activity they're engaged in.
Does ADHD Affect Children Our Of School, too?
The effects of ADHD are not limited to the classroom environment. Children with ADHD may exhibit disruptive behaviors to their extra-curricular activities and their relationships with parents, siblings, and friends.
For example, children with ADHD may struggle to play team sports because it is difficult for them to focus on the game and follow the rules. They may have meltdowns at home when asked to do their homework, come to dinner or go to bed. Because they are prone to interrupting and getting upset when they don’t get their way, they may have trouble getting along with siblings and making or keeping friends.
In adolescence, new issues can arise. Teenagers with poor impulse control can put themselves in danger through dangerous driving, unsafe sex, and other risky behaviors.
Symptoms and Challenges
ADHD may present differently for every child. Some children with ADHD demonstrate hyperactive and impulsive behaviors, while others are prone to inattentive behaviors. Some children show symptoms from both categories, leading to significant difficulties in school and conflict at home. ADHD screening for children can help determine if your child suffers from typical symptoms, and how to move forward if they do. Greenwich Psychology Group can provide ADHD testing in our CT and NYC offices.
Hyperactive or Impulsive Symptoms of ADHD
- Fidgeting and squirming
- Trouble relaxing or playing quietly
- Moving constantly, often running and climbing inappropriately
- Extreme impatience
- Excessive talking or interrupting
- Blurting out answers
- Guessing rather than trying to solve a problem
- Having a quick temper or a “short fuse.”
- Acting without thinking
- Inability to keep powerful emotions in check
- Seeming to be constantly “on the go” or “driven by a motor.”
- Intruding on others’ conversations or activities
Inattentive Symptoms of ADHD
- Getting distracted easily
- Growing bored with tasks before they are finished
- Overlooking details or making careless mistakes
- Appearing not to listen when spoken to
- Difficulty following instructions
- Trouble getting organized or planning ahead
- Misplacing homework, toys, and other items
- Forgetfulness in daily activities
- Avoiding tasks that require sustained effort
Treatment: How to Help a Child with ADHD Without Medication
Behavior therapy for your ADHD child can make a dramatic difference for a child with ADHD. The goals of behavior therapy are to teach children to manage their symptoms and strengthen positive behaviors, such as completing tasks and keeping track of school assignments. It is often helpful to begin behavior therapy as soon as the ADHD diagnosis is made.
Parent training is also an essential aspect of behavior therapy for ADHD. Parent training aims to teach parents skills and strategies that help reduce behavior problems stemming from ADHD. Parents learn to cultivate good behaviors, use positive reinforcement and structure, and interact and communicate effectively with their children.
Greenwich Psychology Group’s experienced ADHD specialists in CT and NY meet regularly with parents to review the child’s progress, provide support and coaching, and adjust strategies as needed. Parents are encouraged to practice with their child between sessions.
We know that every child is unique and has their own path to success and happiness. Our child clinicians create treatment plans tailored to address each child’s individual needs. Treatment helps your child learn to manage their symptoms, overcome daily challenges, enjoy more rewarding interpersonal relationships, and build self-esteem they’ll carry with them for life.
Greenwich Psychology Group currently has offices in Greenwich, CT and New York, NY.
Our Team
Dr. Pellerzi
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Pellerzi is a school psychologist and postdoctoral fellow, the highest level of clinical and academic training. Her training consists of a Master of Science in Psychology of Bilingual Students, an advanced certificate in Bilingual School Psychology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in School Psychology from Fordham University.
Daniel DiTieri
Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel DiTieri is a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with extensive clinical experience. He received his training at Sacred Heart University, followed by a graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Mercy College.
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