Some signs of ADHD in toddlers:
- Inability to sustain attention, even for a few minutes
- Constantly distracted by sights and sounds
- Difficulty sustaining eye contact
- Able to pay attention to certain high interest things
- Able to stay on task in high energy level tasks
- Excessively hyperactive
- Always in motion
- Lack of interest in reading, sitting on laps or cuddling
- Difficulty calming down once overexcited
- Highly impulsive
- Accident prone
- Difficulty sleeping
A child exhibiting some or all of these signs does not necessarily have ADHD as some children will have some of these characteristics but not have ADHD. Parents should discuss concerns with their physician.
One reason it can be difficult to diagnose ADHD in toddlers is because children may exhibit a large range of behaviors. Although attention spans at this age may be below the norm, this is not necessarily seen as a problem. Children often develop at different rates and while a child may seem to be less mature than his or her peers, time may solve the problem.
Parents can benefit, however, from beginning some early behavioral modification programs at home. Instituting a positive reward system and focusing on acceptable behavior rather than adopting a punitive process can be helpful for toddlers with ADHD. In addition, all children with ADHD tend to thrive in a structured environment. Setting up a daily routine can help.
Sources:
“What is ADHD?”, 2002, Jim Chandler, M.D., Attention Deficit Disorder Resources
“(ADD) ADHD at Different Ages”, Date Unknown, Author Unknown, Edge Foundation
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”, 2008, Aug, Kevin Leehey, M.D., LeeheyMD.com
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”, 2008, April 3, Author Unknown, National Institute of Mental Health
