ADD Symptoms in Children

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is also called Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). ADD and ADHD symptoms are the same and ADHD is commonly used because the name describes all the symptoms of ADD. The ADD symptoms in children are not the same for every kid. Inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity are the three major symptoms of ADD in children. According to these three symptoms, the ADD symptoms in children are divided into two categories as inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive behavior. Children show symptoms from any one of the category mentioned above. However, some children show symptoms which come under both the categories. Children suffering from ADD take up a lot of physical activity. ADD is seen in children of six to eleven years of age. ADD is usually diagnosed in early childhood, usually before seven years of age. The causes of ADD are discussed in detail in the article 'Causes of ADHD'. Let us discuss the ADD symptoms in children.

ADD Symptoms in Children - Inattention
Following are the ADD symptoms in children who fall in the category of the inattentive type. This type is also known as the classic attention deficit disorder.

1. Children fail to pay close attention to detail in ADD.
2. The child faces difficulty in maintaining attention in studies and play activities.
3. They commit careless mistakes while doing their homework. Children often avoid schoolwork and homework.
4. Children suffering from ADD easily lose things like books, pencils and other tools.
5. Children find it difficult to organize daily tasks and activities.
6. They are easily distracted by irrelevant sounds and sights. These children rarely follow instructions given by parents and children. They tend to forget daily activities and do not listen to elders.
7. They often tend to forget one task very soon and bounce to the next task. This keeps on repeating and it becomes troublesome for the teachers and parents.
8. However, these children enjoy doing some specific tasks which they like. They are able to give undivided attention to the activities of their choice.

ADD Symptoms in Children - Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness
Following are the ADD symptoms in children who fall in the category of the hyperactive/impulsive type. This type is commonly known as classic attention deficit and hyperactive disorder.

1. The child frequently fidgets with his hands and legs. He/she is often restless and does not sit in one position.
2. The children suffering from ADD feels restless and talks excessively. They run about unnecessarily in situations where they are not expected to be that restless.
3. When these children are asked a question, they blurt the answer without listening to the entire question.
4. They often intrude in other people's work.
5. The children suffering from attention deficit disorder(ADD) with hyperactivity are in motion all the time. They never sit calmly at one place and never do their daily chores properly.
6. Tapping their feet or fidgeting with their hands along with wiggling in their seats, is commonly observed in children suffering from ADD.

ADD Symptoms in Children - Combination
Some children often exhibit a combination of the symptoms of the above mentioned types of ADD. Also, it must be kept in mind by parents and teachers that not all the children who are hyperactive, restless and inattentive, suffer from ADD.

The ADD symptoms in children are different for girls and boys. Girls often daydream and find it difficult to pay attention in classroom. Boys suffering from ADD are more likely to be hyperactive. Also, boys are less conformable with teachers and elders. Not all the children who are hyperactive and inattentive in schools and homes suffer from ADD. When the symptoms of ADD are persistent for more than six months, it is advisable to consult a doctor and take the recommended ADHD treatment.