Signs of ADHD in Children: What Parents Should Look For

Recognising ADHD in Children

ADHD affects around 5% of children in the UK. It often shows up differently depending on the child's age, gender, and presentation type. Some children are visibly hyperactive and impulsive, while others are quietly inattentive and easily missed.

Common Signs by Age

Preschool (3-5): Constant motion, difficulty sitting for stories or meals, frequent tantrums beyond what's typical for age, can't wait their turn, seems not to listen, switches activities every few minutes.

Primary school (5-11): Can't stay seated in class, blurts out answers, loses belongings constantly, forgets homework, struggles to follow multi-step instructions, difficulty making and keeping friends, emotional outbursts that seem disproportionate.

Secondary school (11-16): Poor organisation, missing deadlines, difficulty revising, risk-taking behaviour, low self-esteem, social difficulties, may seem lazy or unmotivated (they're not - they're struggling).

Three Presentations

Predominantly Inattentive: Daydreamy, forgetful, loses things, doesn't seem to listen, avoids tasks requiring sustained focus. Often missed in girls.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive: Can't sit still, talks excessively, interrupts, acts without thinking, difficulty waiting. More often flagged in boys.

Combined: Both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive features. The most common presentation.

When to Seek Help

Seek assessment if symptoms are present in more than one setting (home AND school), have been going on for at least six months, and are affecting your child's ability to learn, make friends, or feel good about themselves. Start with your GP or ask the school SENCO for support.

What ADHD is NOT

ADHD is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar, or too much screen time. It's a neurodevelopmental condition with strong genetic links. If your child has ADHD, it's nobody's fault - and early support makes a real difference.