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🧒 Guide

What are the signs of ADHD in children?

Short answer

Signs include a short attention span, being easily distracted, fidgeting, and acting without thinking. Signs usually start before age 12, and show up in more than one place, like at home and at school.

What you might notice

Finding it hard to stick with tasks, seeming not to listen, losing things, constant moving, or interrupting.

Many young children do these things sometimes. With ADHD, the signs happen a lot and get in the way of daily life.

What to do next

Talk to your GP or your child's school SENCO (special educational needs coordinator). Writing down examples from home and school really helps.

❓ Related questions

Do girls show ADHD differently?

Girls are more likely to have mainly attention signs, which are quieter and easier to miss.

Source: NHS: ADHD in children

Can a teacher diagnose ADHD?

No. Only a specialist, like a paediatrician or psychiatrist, can diagnose it. Teachers can share what they notice.

Source: NICE NG87: ADHD diagnosis and management

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Sources

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This guide is general information, not medical advice. Please talk to your GP about your own situation.

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