Is your child's misbehavior normal? Or is it ADHD? (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Little children are no exception. They struggle when asked to sit in a chair, run when asked to leave, and start playing with toys when you try to put them away. These are very normal things. But sometimes these behaviors are more than just normal mischief, they can be a symptom of a condition called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or as we all know it, ADHD ( attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) . So how do we know the difference between the two? By looking at your child's level of mischief and their ability to maintain attention, we can understand whether this is normal behavior for the child's age or a condition that requires special support.

There are three main types of ADHD.

Simply put, we can divide children with ADHD into three main categories.

• Hyperactive /Impulsive: The main symptoms are excessive fidgeting and inability to control impulses.
• Inattentive : The main symptom is the inability to focus.
• Combination: The characteristics of both types mentioned above are seen together.

Let's now talk about each of these types in a little more detail.

Hyperactivity or hyperactivity

It's hard for young children to stay in one place. They're very curious about the world. But if your child is constantly fidgeting, running, and jumping around in a way that doesn't fit in with where they are or what they're doing, it could be a sign of hyperactivity.

Characteristics of a hyperactive child:

• Even inside the house, they scream, run around, and play.
• Sitting in one place, for example while eating or studying, is very difficult.
• They are constantly fidgeting with their hands and feet, making noises with their fingers, and twisting back and forth.
• Because it moves around so fast, it often bumps into things and people.
• When playing, you tend to play a little too fast and rough.
• Always talking. Answering questions before they are finished, interrupting others when they are talking.
• I get angry quickly over small things.

Even though young children (teens) can sit in one place for a while, if they have ADHD, they will struggle to sit in a chair, or try to do something with their hands.

Attention deficit (What are the characteristics of inattention ?

Young children have a shorter attention span than adults. This is normal. As they get older, this ability gradually increases. But if your child has a problem with attention, you may notice symptoms like these:

• Even the smallest thing can distract you.
• Once you start something, you quickly get bored with it.
• It's very difficult to keep your belongings and books organized.
• Because of the rush, I often make small mistakes.
• They often lose their belongings and forget where they put them.
• Even though they seem to be listening when they talk, they are not really listening.
• Not completing homework or small assignments.

Impulsive behavior and poor impulse control

Children's self-control develops rapidly between the ages of 5 and 6. If your child has difficulty controlling their impulses, it may be because:

• Doing strange things to get other people's attention.
• It's difficult to follow the rules.
• Can be a little aggressive.
• They feel very sad and upset when they make a mistake or when someone criticizes them.
• They don't understand how their words or actions affect others.

When should I see a doctor?

If your child can sometimes stay in one place, pay attention, and control their impulses, that may be normal for that age. But if these things are a problem all the time—at home, at school, with friends, everywhere— it could be ADHD. ADHD is a common condition. But there are other health problems that can cause similar symptoms.

• Hearing impairment
• Learning disabilities
• Anxiety or Depression
• Sleep problems (e.g., sleep apnea or not getting enough sleep)

How to find out if you have ADHD? (Assessment)

There is no single blood test or scan that can tell you for sure if you have ADHD. The doctor will do a thorough assessment. 1. Physical examination: The child will be tested for things like vision and hearing, and will look for other physical causes for these symptoms. 2.Gathering information: The doctor will talk to you and your child's teachers. He will review your child's school records and health records. 3. Rating scales: A clear picture of your child's behavior patterns is created through questionnaires (rating scales) that parents and teachers fill out. It is only after all this is put together that the doctor comes to a conclusion about whether or not the child has ADHD.

What are the treatments?

Treatment usually involves a combination of behavior therapy and medication .

Behavior Management

For children under 6 years of age, it is recommended that parents receive parent training in behavior management before giving medication. A therapist teaches parents how to help their child change their behavior, how to maintain discipline, and how to provide encouragement.

Medications

For older children, behavioral therapy is often combined with medication. These are the two main types.

• Stimulants: These are the most commonly used. They increase the brain's attention and motivational chemical dopamine, which quickly controls symptoms. Examples include methylphenidate and amphetamine . However, they can cause side effects such as loss of appetite and insomnia. It is extremely important to use these drugs only as directed by your doctor and in the correct dosage.

• Non-Stimulants: These are used if stimulants fail to work. Examples include Atomoxetine and Guanfacine. These take a little longer to work, but their effects can last for about 24 hours.

What else can we do as parents?

• Focus on healthy things: Children with ADHD like to take risks. Instead of discouraging them, teach them the difference between good and bad risks. For example, it's good to train according to the rules of a martial arts class, but it's bad to fight with others at school.
• Help them be social: These children may have difficulty making friends because they may not understand social cues. So create opportunities for them to socialize with peers. When they do, choose short-term activities with clear rules.
• Limit free time: The busier a child is, the less likely they are to engage in bad behavior. Spending too much time watching TV and playing computer games can increase ADHD symptoms .
• Appreciate and encourage small victories:Give your child small, achievable goals. For example, instead of saying, "I want to get an A or B on the report card," give them a small goal like, "Let's finish our homework today." Praise them when they do it.
• Make a good plan: Work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that is right for your child. That plan should include medication, therapy, and your love and encouragement.