ADHD in Kids & Teens

Overview

What Is ADHD?

ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. People with ADHD have differences in how their brain develops and works. This may cause problems with their attention, ability to sit still, and practice self-control. ADHD can affect children and teens at school, at home, and in friendships.

The signs of ADHD start early in childhood, but some people don’t find out they have it until they’re older. It depends on when ADHD keeps them from doing well and when they see a doctor about it.

No matter at what age people find out they have ADHD, the right treatment can help them do better in all areas of life. Having support from parents, teachers, and friends goes a long way.

Top Things to Know

• ADHD is a brain condition that affects how kids and teens focus, sit still, and behave. 
• Kids with ADHD may be impatient and show strong emotional reactions to small things.
• Behavior therapy and medicine can help treat ADHD. Support from parents and teachers is also important.
• ADHD can sometimes be mistaken for normal childhood behavior, mainly in younger kids.

Signs & Symptoms

What Is Typical Behavior in Kids and Teens?

At times, all kids have trouble paying attention, listening and following directions, sitting still, or waiting their turn. In fact, these habits are common in very young children. Attention, activity, and self-control develop little by little as children grow. Kids learn these skills with help from parents and teachers.

But when children keep having trouble and start to have problems at school, home, and with friends, it may be ADHD.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of ADHD in Kids and Teens?

Kids and teens with ADHD can show signs in different areas, such as being inattentive (easily distracted), hyperactive, and impulsive. 

Inattentive

This means having trouble focusing attention, concentrating, and staying on task. They may miss important details, not listen well to directions, and not finish what they start. Kids and teens may daydream or dawdle too much. They may seem forgetful, lose track of their things, and need lots of reminders.

Hyperactive

Kids and teens who are hyperactive are fidgety, restless, and easily bored. They may get frustrated or have trouble sitting still or staying quiet when needed. They may rush through things and make careless mistakes. They may climb, jump, or roughhouse when they shouldn't. Without meaning to, they may act in ways that disrupt others.

Impulsive

Kids and teens who are impulsive act too quickly before thinking. They often talk or call out answers in class, interrupt, push or grab, and find it hard to wait. They may do things without asking for permission, take things that aren't theirs, or act in ways that are risky. They may also get upset easily.

Kids and teens with ADHD sometimes have learning problems, challenging behaviors, anxiety, and depression. They’re also more likely to drink alcohol and use drugs.

What Causes ADHD?

It's not clear what causes the brain differences of ADHD. The condition can be inherited (passed from parents to their children). Many kids and teens with ADHD have a parent or relative who has it. Kids may also be more likely to have it if they were born early, were exposed to harmful toxins (poisons) like lead, or were exposed to drugs during pregnancy.

ADHD is not caused by poor parenting.

How Is ADHD Diagnosed?

To diagnose ADHD, your doctor will ask about your child's health, behavior, and activity. Your child will likely have a checkup, including a vision and hearing test, to see if other conditions might be causing the symptoms. There are no lab tests or blood tests for ADHD.

If kids are old enough, the doctor may have them fill out checklists about their behavior. You’ll be given checklists too. Information about your child’s behavior in the classroom is important, so your child’s teachers may be asked to fill them out, as well.

How Is ADHD Treated?

Treatment for ADHD may include a mix of medicine, therapy, and support at home and school.

Medicine

ADHD medicines may help kids pay attention, slow down, and use more self-control. If your child is taking ADHD medicine, give it exactly as your doctor says. Ask if there are any side effects to watch for, like being less hungry, and how to help avoid them. Also, keep medicines in a safe place.

Behavior Therapy

Therapists can help kids develop the social, emotional, and planning skills that need to be made stronger with ADHD. Therapy can also teach parents coaching skills. You’ll learn the best ways to respond to emotional or behavior problems that are part of ADHD. It’s important to go to all therapy visits.

Home Support

There’s a lot parents can do to help kids and teens with ADHD. The right support can make a big difference in their well-being. Try these useful tips:

• Be involved and learn all you can about ADHD. Follow the treatment your doctor recommends.
• Learn what ways of parenting are best for a child with ADHD — and which ones can make it frustrating for you both. You may find yourself saying, “Stop,” or “No,” often. Instead, try to focus on giving clear instructions, one at a time. Then give praise if your child follows through. Talk openly and supportively about ADHD. Focus on your child’s strengths and positive qualities.
• Encourage your child to eat healthy food, get enough sleep, be active every day, and practice deep breathing. These things may help manage ADHD symptoms.

School Support

Teachers can help kids with ADHD do well and enjoy school more, and parents play an important part. To help your child do better in class:

• Talk with your child’s teachers about any concerns you have. Tell them about past school years and what seems to work best. You can also ask about using a behavior tracker where teachers can record how your child does in class.
• Work with teachers to break schoolwork into smaller parts and help your child organize things. You can also ask that your child sit where there are fewer distractions, like away from windows or kids who talk a lot. Giving kids quick breaks to get up and move during class may help, too.
• Ask teachers if your child should have an individualized education program (IEP) or a 504 plan. These provide in-school support for kids that often helps them focus better.
• Meet with teachers often to find out how things are going at school. Let your child see that you and the teachers are part of a support team.

With the right ADHD treatment, parents, teachers, and therapists can help kids get better at paying attention, slowing down, and gaining self-control. They can teach kids to use their strengths and energy in positive ways. Kids with ADHD can improve their focus, do well in school and activities they enjoy, and feel good about themselves.

What Else Should I Know?

Having ADHD can be tough. Parents may be tempted to scold kids for things they can't help — like not listening, getting distracted, or doing things too fast. Sometimes other kids get angry with them, too. That can make your child feel embarrassed or sad. At times, kids may mistakenly blame themselves for ADHD. Be sure they know that ADHD isn’t their fault and that they can learn ways to control it.

When your child has ADHD, it’s important to connect with others and get updates on treatment and parenting. Ask your doctor or therapist about local support groups. You may also find one through places like CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder).

Other Common Questions

How Can I Help My Child Control a Temper?

Controlling outbursts can be hard for kids — and helping them learn to do so is a tough job for their parents.  Learn what to do when kids get angry.

How Can I Teach My Child Self-Control?

Tantrums can rile even the most patient parents. Here’s how to help kids learn self-control.

How Can I Help My Child Handle Stress?

In small amounts, stress can help kids rise to a challenge. But over time, too much stress can affect their mental and physical health. Try these tips to help prevent effects from long-term stress.