September 2025

If your kid is fidgety and struggles to focus, you may wonder if it’s typical childhood behavior or a sign they have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a brain condition that can impact a child’s ability to focus, remain seated, and follow instructions.

Kids with ADHD may face challenges both at school and at home. They may also find it more challenging to form and maintain friendships.

So, how can you tell if your child may have ADHD? Here are some common signs of ADHD outlined by Kids Health:

Inattentiveness: Kids with ADHD are less attentive and more distractible than their peers. They may struggle to follow directions and complete assignments. Basic tasks may take them longer to complete than their peers. They are more likely to forget details and lose things.

Hyperactivity: Most kids dislike sitting still, but kids with ADHD will struggle more with staying still when needed. They may appear restless or fidgety when not engaged in physical activity. They may be more likely than their peers to run, jump, climb, or engage in roughhousing when they shouldn’t.

Impulsiveness: Kids with ADHD are more likely to act on impulse without thinking things through. They may interrupt, grab things from people’s hands, or push other children. They may also do risky things without realizing the danger. (Think of that kid standing on top of the playground structure!) Some kids with ADHD may have emotional outbursts that seem far too intense, given their situation.

If you suspect your child may have ADHD, talk with their pediatrician. They can do a behavioral assessment (typically with input from parents and teachers) to determine if your child has ADHD. With early diagnosis and the right support, your child can thrive, even with ADHD.