Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Though it can affect people of all ages, ADHD often begins in childhood and can persist into adolescence and adulthood. Recognizing the early signs of ADHD in children is the first step toward helping your child succeed at school, at home, and in social settings.
While every child occasionally forgets things, fidgets, or has trouble focusing, consistent patterns of impulsive behavior, inattention, and hyperactivity that interfere with daily life may indicate ADHD. Understanding what is typical behavior and what may require professional evaluation is key for any parent who wants to be proactive about their child’s mental health.
When Do Symptoms of ADHD in Children Start to Show?
ADHD symptoms can start as early as age 3 but often become more noticeable when a child starts school. That’s when expectations for sitting still, concentrating, and following instructions increase. Parents and teachers may begin to notice behavior that doesn’t align with typical developmental patterns. This can include frequent tantrums, difficulty making friends, or struggles with academic tasks that require sustained attention.
In preschool-aged children, ADHD may show up as extreme restlessness, difficulty engaging in quiet play, or trouble sharing and taking turns. In older children, the symptoms may evolve into disorganization, frequent forgetfulness, or impulsivity that leads to risky behavior or social difficulties. It’s important to understand that symptoms may change as a child grows, and the environment plays a big role in how these behaviors are expressed.
Early recognition is vital. Children who are diagnosed early and provided with appropriate support tend to have better long-term outcomes. Early intervention can help reduce the impact of ADHD on a child’s education, self-esteem, and relationships.
13 Signs That Your Child Might Have ADHD
While not all children with these symptoms will have ADHD, and not every child with ADHD will show all of them, the following list includes some of the most common early signs of ADHD in children:
1. Inability to sit still
Constant fidgeting, tapping, or moving, even during quiet or structured activities like mealtime or story time.
2. Short attention span
Difficulty focusing on tasks, especially ones that are not immediately rewarding or stimulating.
3. Easily distracted
Losing focus quickly due to sounds, visual stimuli, or internal thoughts.
4. Forgetfulness
Regularly forgetting items like books, homework, or toys, or forgetting instructions soon after hearing them.
5. Appears not to listen
When spoken to, they may seem to tune out or not register what’s being said.
6. Impulsive actions
Acting without thinking, interrupting others, blurting out answers in class, or speaking out of turn.
7. Difficulty waiting
Trouble waiting for their turn in games or while standing in line.
8. Frequent emotional outbursts
Difficulty managing emotions, leading to intense reactions over small frustrations.
9. Trouble following multi-step instructions
Can often follow the first step but forgets or ignores the rest.
10. Disorganized approach to tasks
Starting many projects but failing to complete them, often jumping between tasks.
11. Losing personal belongings
Misplacing school supplies, clothing, or toys frequently.
12. Hyperfocus on preferred activities
Becoming deeply absorbed in something they enjoy while neglecting other responsibilities.
13. Tendency to take risks
Engaging in activities that are unsafe without considering the consequences, often in search of stimulation.
If these behaviors appear consistently in different settings (e.g., both at home and at school) and are impacting your child’s ability to succeed or maintain relationships, it may be time to seek an evaluation.
Testing Children for ADHD at Mighty Mental Health Las Vegas
At Mighty Mental Health in Las Vegas, we understand the challenges parents face when trying to identify and manage the signs of ADHD in young children. Our compassionate team of licensed professionals offers a structured and evidence-based approach to ADHD testing and treatment for children of all ages.
We begin with a thorough assessment that includes behavioral observations, parent and teacher questionnaires, and clinical interviews. This comprehensive process ensures we consider all aspects of your child’s functioning and rule out other potential causes for the symptoms. For instance, learning disabilities, anxiety, or even sleep disorders can sometimes mimic ADHD symptoms.
Once a diagnosis is made, we work closely with families to develop personalized care plans. These may include:
- Medication management for children who would benefit from stimulant or non-stimulant medications to help manage symptoms
- Behavioral therapy to support emotional regulation, social skills, and focus
- Parental coaching and school collaboration to create a supportive environment both at home and in the classroom
Our team at Mighty Mental Health is experienced in treating not just ADHD, but a broad range of mental health challenges, including Addiction, Depression, Adult ADHD, Bulimia Nervosa, and more.
As a trusted psychiatry and medication management office in Las Vegas, NV, we proudly offer both Telehealth appointments and in-office consultations to accommodate the needs of busy families. With our support, your child can learn strategies that help them succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
Don’t wait to get the answers you need. Contact Mighty Mental Health today at 702-479-1600 or fill out our online contact form. Early intervention can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can other issues mimic ADHD symptoms?
Yes, many conditions can look similar to ADHD. Anxiety disorders, learning differences, sensory processing issues, and even hearing or vision problems can cause behaviors like inattention or hyperactivity. That’s why it’s so important to have your child evaluated by a qualified mental health professional, like the experts at Mighty Mental Health.
Can ADHD look different in boys and girls?
Absolutely. Boys with ADHD are more likely to exhibit externalizing behaviors like impulsivity and hyperactivity, making them more likely to be noticed and referred for evaluation. Girls, on the other hand, often show more inattentive symptoms, such as daydreaming, disorganization, and trouble focusing, which can easily be overlooked or mistaken for shyness. As a result, many girls remain undiagnosed until later in life. Recognizing these gender differences is key to ensuring all children receive the support they need.
Will my child “grow out” of ADHD?
While some children may see a reduction in symptoms as they mature, ADHD is generally a lifelong condition. However, with the right treatment plan and support systems in place, many individuals with ADHD go on to live highly successful, fulfilling lives. Teaching children how to manage their symptoms and build on their strengths is essential to helping them reach their full potential.
Recognizing the early signs of ADHD in children can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With the right resources, support, and professional guidance, your child can thrive. Mighty Mental Health Las Vegas is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether it’s for evaluation, medication, therapy, or long-term management, we provide the care your child deserves.
Call us today at 702-479-1600 or reach out through our website to schedule a consultation.