The Hyperactive Child: Symptoms of ADHD in Children

Children are commonly known as little balls of energy. It’s a normal part of growing up. However, some children appear to have an overabundance of energy that prohibits them from being able to sit for long periods of time or to focus on schoolwork and other tasks.

How can you tell if your hyperactive child is truly hyperactive, or simply in a normal phase of childhood? According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), more than six million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD, as of a survey dated 2016.

What exactly is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Although it is commonly seen in children, adults can also show signs of ADHD. A child with ADHD may have difficulty focusing on schoolwork, constantly “fidget,” and/or have uncontrollable impulses. An individual may suffer chronic bouts of the disorder throughout their life.

ADHD may stem from a variety of root causes such as dysfunctional relationships, low self-esteem, or victimization at school or at home. Genetics can also play a role in whether a child develops the disorder. If one or more parent has the condition, their offspring may exhibit some of the symptoms of ADHD as children.

Brain structure and brain function may contribute to the change in behavior. Researchers are still unclear on what the underlying causes for the disorder might be when it comes to the brain but theorize it is possibly due to chemical imbalances or problems with the neurotransmitters.

Unfortunately, parents may feel at fault if their child is diagnosed with ADHD as the public at large points to an undisciplined child out of control. However, there is a myriad of causes, including the physical and emotional ones listed above. Pesticides, food dyes, in utero exposure to alcohol or tobacco, and lead exposure may also contribute.

The Symptoms of ADHD in the Hyperactive Child

If you are concerned that your child is developing ADHD, here is a list of common symptoms of ADHD in children.

Unable to focus

Your child may have trouble focusing on schoolwork or directions. Any type of assignment or task that requires mental energy may prove difficult if your child can’t focus for long periods of time. This can include the end-of-the-year testing that most school systems use.

Interrupts others

Children with ADHD simply find it too difficult to wait their turn and will interrupt others, either verbally or through their behavior. You may notice if your child begins to talk over you or jumps into a conversation between you and another person.

Inability to wait their turn

Not only in conversation, but your child may have trouble waiting their turn at games or on the playground. Children with ADHD often interrupt their siblings during quiet play.

Constant fidgeting or moving around

You might notice your child jumping around on the couch during a movie or spinning in circles or jumping while waiting in line at the grocery store. A hyperactive child will find story time and other activities that require quietly sitting difficult.

Temper tantrums or outbursts

Depending on your child’s age, he or she may experience overwhelming emotions. They may be unable to express these emotions in a healthy way, so they end up “throwing a temper tantrum” or having an outburst. These behaviors rarely happen in only one setting. If the child has outbursts at home, they will probably have outbursts at school.

Impulsive behaviors

Children with ADHD may not stop to think about their actions and consequences. They act impulsively. This can be something mild such as knocking crumbs off a table into the floor or lead to more severe actions, like throwing a rock through a disliked neighbor’s window.

Unable to play by themselves quietly

Quiet play is an important aspect of childhood; however, your child may have difficulty sitting still long enough and not making any noise. They may jump from toy-to-toy.

Procrastination on mental tasks

Any tasks that require a great deal of mental focus are low on the list of priorities for a child with ADHD. It’s not that your child is lazy or hates school. It could be that trying to study for a history exam is too taxing. Homework that should only take one hour may take your child several hours to complete.

Exhibits self-focused behavior

The hyperactive child is commonly unconcerned with the feelings of others. Since their behavior is sometimes impulsive, they may not think of how their behavior will affect others around them. This can lead to strained relationships and lost friendships.

Disorganized at school and home

That messy room and backpack full of papers could be a sign of ADHD. Hyperactive children have trouble staying on task and will jump from project to project. You may purchase the best organizers for school and your child will still find it difficult to stay organized and meet deadlines. Lost papers and forgotten assignments are common.

Forgets rules and tasks often

It’s not that your child doesn’t listen. The mind of the hyperactive child is a busy place and it is easy for them to forget that you told them the baby was asleep or to feed the dog. Verbal lists of chores do not seem to work with ADHD children.

Although the list of ADHD symptoms is long, there are treatments available to make life a little easier for both children and parents.

The Types of ADHD Treatment Available

You will need to work with your child’s pediatrician to find a specialist or a team of specialists to help your child with the symptoms of ADHD, including mood swings and aggression. Most likely, your child’s health care team will use a combination of treatments.

Talk therapy (psychotherapy)

Psychotherapy comes in many forms. Your child may need a combination of one-on-one counseling and family counseling to work through issues. At times, the school counselor may be called in to monitor your child’s progress and work as a mediator with your child’s teacher(s) to develop easier test-taking situations.

Behavior therapy

Since high emotions can lead to outbursts and tantrums, your physician will probably recommend anger management and cognitive behavioral therapy to proactively stop an outburst before it starts. Your child will learn how to change their negative thoughts to positive ones, and how to slow down before reacting.

Social skills therapy

Your child’s counselor may work with them on social skills management during the school day, depending on your child’s age. The goal is to help your child learn to wait their turn, play with others well, and not interrupt people as often. They should learn how to cope with feelings of anger and frustration during play in a healthy way.

Medications

There are several medications available to help your child focus and to reduce the anxiety they often feel. Your pediatrician may prescribe non-stimulating medications such as atomoxetine. Sometimes a physician will order an SSRI or a stimulant medication if your child is also coping with a separate mental health disorder, like depression or OCD.

Side effects can range from appetite changes to nausea and vomiting. Most medications take several days to a few weeks to begin working to a level that you will be able to detect behavioral changes in your child. As your child’s body adapts to the new medication, mild side effects should diminish, if not disappear completely.

Your child may need to use these treatments throughout childhood, and possibly into adulthood. A mental health professional should be willing to work with your child to minimize the problems associated with ADHD.

How Parents Can Help Their Child Deal With Symptoms of ADHD

Other than the treatments listed above, are there things you can do to help your child manage their ADHD?

Let your child know you are there for them and are willing to listen to their concerns. Children dealing with high emotions need to know they can turn to you and you will understand. Practice meditation and breathing techniques with them to help your child learn to focus and center their mind. Prayer will help your child to pour out their frustrations and concerns to God while feeling gratitude for the blessings around them.