• Mental Health
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • OCD
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • ADHD
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
  • Mental Health
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • OCD
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • ADHD
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
Skip to content

ADHD in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Published: December 12, 2022
Published: 12/12/2022
Andrea Brognano LMHC,LPC, NCC
Written by:

Andrea Brognano

LMHC, LPC, NCC

Headshot of Dr. Kristen Fuller, MD
Reviewed by:

Kristen Fuller

MD
  • What Is ADHD in Children?What Is Childhood ADHD?
  • ADHD Symptoms in ChildrenSymptoms
  • Positive Effects of Childhood ADHDPositive Effects
  • How Is ADHD in Kids Diagnosed?How Is It Diagnosed?
  • Treatment for ADHD in childrenTreatment Options
  • How to Help a Child With ADHDHow to Support a Child
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • ADHD in Children InfographicsInfographics
Andrea Brognano LMHC,LPC, NCC
Written by:

Andrea Brognano

LMHC, LPC, NCC

Headshot of Dr. Kristen Fuller, MD
Reviewed by:

Kristen Fuller

MD

Children with ADHD may be easily distracted, impulsive, or restless. They often have trouble sitting still, waiting their turn, or listening quietly. Symptoms can affect a child in many aspects of their life, from their schooling to relationships with peers. Parents and caregivers can rest assured knowing that there are effective treatment options available to help their child cope.

Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered By Insurance

Talkiatry offers virtual psychiatry for children and adolescents (age 6 and up). They’re in-network with every major insurer and offer medication management with talk therapy. Complete the online assessment and get matched with a doctor in just days. Free Assessment

Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by Talkiatry.

Free Assessment

What Is ADHD in Children?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way a person behaves and learns, and symptoms generally begin to present in early childhood. It is common for childhood ADHD to be more recognizable than adult ADHD, as children are expected to behave attentively in educational environments. They are less able to control their symptoms in front of others.

The three presentations of ADHD symptoms include:

  • Inattentive ADHD: Symptoms present as an inability to focus on tasks, responsibilities, and the like.
  • Hyperactive/impulsive ADHD: Symptoms may present as jumpy, fidgety behaviors and actions.
  • Combined ADHD: A combined presentation includes symptoms of both inattentiveness and hyperactivity.

Is It Typical Child Behavior or ADHD?

Children are expected to be hyper from time to time, so it’s important to recognize when typical childlike behavior is disruptive. A parent should look for any signs that indicate behaviors that are not typical for their child’s age in various settings. They can also reach out to their child’s teachers for information about their conduct at school.

ADHD Symptoms in Children

ADHD symptoms may present in any number of ways in a child. For example, they may lack focus, receive poor grades, leave tasks unfinished, fail to pay attention to instruction, or begin exhibiting increased signs of anger. These are often combined with difficulties listening to others or staying engaged. They may struggle to connect with other children their age, and engage in ADHD masking in order to hide their symptoms.

Common ADHD symptoms in children include:

Inattentive:

  • Difficulty listening to others: A child may find it difficult to stay attentive if they are not interested in a subject being discussed.
  • Easily distracted: A child may become easily distracted by thoughts of other tasks, things, or events; they can also be easily excited about new activities.
  • Missing details: When a child is given a simple task but fails to complete it according to instruction, this can be a sign of inattention.

Impulsive/Hyperactive:

  • Interruptive: Often, children with ADHD are unable to withhold their thoughts until appropriate because they fear forgetting them.
  • Constant fidgeting: Constant fidgeting, playing with clothing, or excessive movement are common expressions of hyperactivity in children.
  • Difficulty filtering thoughts: A child might speak without a “filter” because they feel the need to express these ideas before they forget them.
  • Lack of patience: A child with ADHD may lack patience as they always need to be “on the go.”
  • Trouble staying seated: When a child with ADHD has a surplus of energy, they find it difficult to stay still and seated.

5 Positive Effects of Childhood ADHD

A diagnosis of ADHD does not mean a child will lead a life of negativity or hardship. In fact, children with ADHD can tap into numerous positive traits once they are given the tools and support to do so.

Below are five positive characteristics of children with ADHD:

1. Increased Creativity

Children with ADHD often have a heightened sense of creativity. This is likely due to their ability to see things from different perspectives, which they can then use to express their unique emotions and feelings. Parents and caregivers should allow their child to tap into this creativity frequently, as fostering this skill can lead to increased overall wellness.

2. Spontaneity

A child with ADHD is more likely to say yes and adjust if plans can change. While it’s important for a child to have some structure, the ability to be flexible as changes occur is a helpful skill to have.

3. Ambitious & Energetic

Children with ADHD often have endless amounts of energy. Because of this, they may search for opportunities to express and utilize this abundance in productive ways. Ambitious ideas and heightened energy levels may offer a child more opportunities to seek adventure, set goals, and achieve.

4. Compassionate Towards Others

Children with ADHD understand what it feels like to feel overwhelmed, tired, and frustrated. Because of this, these children may be more ready to accept and offer support to others. They may be more compassionate and open to meeting new people than other children their age.

5. Innovative Problem Solvers

The mind of a child with ADHD is often swimming with multiple ideas and thoughts simultaneously. This mental energy may increase their ability to problem solve, as they can more readily consider out-of-the-box solutions or concepts.

Popular Options For Child & Teen Therapy

Talkiatry – Talkiatry offers virtual psychiatry for children and adolescents (age 6 and up). They’re in-network with every major insurer and offer medication management with talk therapy. Complete the online assessment and get matched with a doctor in just days. Free Assessment


Teen Counseling – Provides online talk therapy to teenagers (13 – 19 years) of age. Serves all 50 states. Learn More


Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by Talkiatry and Teen Counseling.

How Is ADHD in Kids Diagnosed?

In order for a child with ADHD to receive proper treatment, it’s crucial to first obtain a proper diagnosis. A psychiatrist may perform ADHD assessment tests, as well as rule out other conditions such as conduct disorders and childhood anxiety or depression.

The current criteria for diagnosing ADHD in children includes:

  • Symptoms have been present for at least six months.
  • Symptoms occur in two or more settings.
  • At least six symptoms of inattention are present.
  • At least six symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity are present.
  • Symptoms impact a child’s social and academic areas of life.

Treatment for ADHD in children

Treatment for childhood ADHD may differ from that of adult ADHD treatment, but will likely include a multifaceted approach. The first part of treatment often includes behavior modification, as this helps parents and professionals understand symptom presentations in a child. Additionally, medications may be used in conjunction to ensure that other symptoms do not arise.2

Medications

Medication is an option for children who have ADHD, but it’s important that a child receive a proper prescription suitable for their individual needs. There are both stimulant and non-stimulant options. However, stimulants are most commonly prescribed, as their effects have been thoroughly researched. It is helpful for parents to understand the difference between stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications so they can work with their child’s pediatrician to determine which prescription will work best for their child.3

Common medications for symptoms of ADHD in children include:

  • Adderall(amphetamine)*
  • Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)*
  • Ritalin (methylphenidate hcl)*
  • Concerta (methylphenidate)*

*This medication has a black box warning, the most serious kind of warning from the FDA for a risk of medication misuse or abuse.

Therapy & Psychosocial Treatments

Therapy often aims to address the thought patterns in children with ADHD by linking them to their actions and behaviors. Social skills training can be beneficial as well, because it helps children learn how to better connect with peers and loved ones.

Therapy and psychosocial treatment options for ADHD symptoms in children include:

  • Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy may include approaches such as CBT for ADHD, and focuses on identifying unwanted behaviors in children and replacing them with positive alternatives.
  • Social skills training: This training helps a child better engage with their peers, as it teaches them how to understand and pick up on the emotions of others.
  • Nutrition therapy: Certain foods can impact a child’s mood and behavior in negative ways–a nutritionist can provide guidance on creating a healthy eating plan for children with ADHD.
  • Parent coaching: Through parenting coaching, parents are offered support in navigating their own emotions while learning how to address their child’s symptoms and behaviors.

How to Help a Child With ADHD

Providing a safe and warm environment for a child with ADHD is important, and parents and caregivers can do so in a number of ways. Children naturally have many needs, and those with ADHD require even more understanding and acceptance. Your child should feel that they have your utmost support so they can continue to grow and thrive.

You can support a child with ADHD by:

  • Maintaining routines: A clear routine helps a child to know what to expect next in their life so that they can plan for it.
  • Allowing them to fidget: A child needs to express their energy, so allow them to do so when appropriate.
  • Practicing relaxation: Showing your child ways to unwind can help reduce certain symptoms.
  • Break up tasks: Give your child the opportunity to take a break up in between tasks. This helps them stay more focused on each task.

Final Thoughts

ADHD is difficult to deal with as a child, but there are effective treatments available. Parents and caregivers understand their child best. If you believe that your child might have ADHD, reach out to and speak with their doctor about it. This will ensure that your child receives an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for marketing by the companies mentioned below.

ADHD Management Tools

Inflow App Inflow is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain, and build lifelong skills. Free Trial

Virtual Psychiatry

Talkiatry Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with expert psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Free Assessment

Online Therapy 

BetterHelp Get support and guidance from a licensed therapist. BetterHelp has over 20,000 therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy.  Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you. Get Started

Free ADHD Newsletter

A free newsletter from Choosing Therapy for those impacted by ADHD. Get helpful tips and the latest information. Sign Up

Choosing Therapy  Directory 

You can search for therapists by specialty, experience, insurance, or price, and location. Find a therapist today

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by BetterHelp, Inflow, and Talkiatry.

For Further Reading

  • How to Parent a Child With ADHD: 11 Tips From a Therapist
  • Does ADHD Go Away? Answers to Whether You Can Grow Out of ADHD
  • Inflow ADHD App Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & Who It’s Right For
  • Best ADHD Podcasts

ADHD in Children Infographics

ADHD Symptoms in Children   Positive Effects of Childhood ADHD   How to Help a Child with ADHD

3 sources

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • Schulz, K. P., et al. (2014). Emotional bias of cognitive control in adults with childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. NeuroImage: Clinical, 5, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2014.05.016

  • Wender. (2001). ADHD Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children, Adolescents, and Adults. Oxford University Press

  • Kollins, S. H., Sparrow, E., & Conners, K. C. (2011). Guide to Assessment Scales in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Second Edition (2nd ed.). Springer Healthcare.

Recent Articles

adhd and hypersexuality
ADHD & Hypersexuality: Connection & Tips for Coping
ADHD can lead to impulsive and compulsive behaviors, including hypersexual behavior. People with ADHD may have difficulty regulating their...
';
Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens
Bipolar Disorder in Children & Teens
Childhood bipolar disorder, or pediatric bipolar disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings, including manic...
';
ADHD in Teen Boys
ADHD in Teen Boys: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder affecting millions of teen boys in the United States.
';
Child & Teen Counseling
What to Expect When Sending Your Child or Teen to Counseling
Therapy for children is the process in which a licensed mental health professional helps a child gain a higher...
';
Does ADHD Go Away Answers to Whether You Can Grow Out of ADHD
Does ADHD Go Away? Answers to Whether You Can Grow Out of ADHD
ADHD is considered a lifelong condition. ADHD symptoms are not expected to go away, but how the symptoms present...
';
Joon App Review 2023
Joon App Review 2023: Pros & Cons, Cost, & Who It’s Right For
Joon is an ADHD app that helps parents motivate their kids to practice responsibility and develop healthier habits. Joon...
';
Andrea Brognano LMHC,LPC, NCC
Written by:

Andrea Brognano

LMHC, LPC, NCC

Headshot of Dr. Kristen Fuller, MD
Reviewed by:

Kristen Fuller

MD
  • What Is ADHD in Children?What Is Childhood ADHD?
  • ADHD Symptoms in ChildrenSymptoms
  • Positive Effects of Childhood ADHDPositive Effects
  • How Is ADHD in Kids Diagnosed?How Is It Diagnosed?
  • Treatment for ADHD in childrenTreatment Options
  • How to Help a Child With ADHDHow to Support a Child
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • ADHD in Children InfographicsInfographics
Call for immediate help
Emergency: 911
Suicide Hotline: 988
See more Crisis Hotlines
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • No Surprises Act
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
988
Click For More Crisis Hotlines
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
811
See more Crisis Hotlines
here
logo
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.
Choosing Therapy Logo