When to Consider Having Your Child Tested for ADHD

As a parent, noticing your child struggling in school, with friends, or at home can be worrying. If your child has trouble focusing, seems restless, or exhibits other behaviors that concern you, you may wonder if ADHD could be the cause. 

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can seriously affect a child’s life. The good is that early diagnosis and treatment can help them manage their symptoms and succeed.

Our board-certified pediatric providers at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics in Darien and Norwalk, Connecticut, specialize in behavioral medicine and personalized ADHD care. We take a holistic approach, combining the most effective therapies to help children with ADHD thrive. 

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to have your child tested for ADHD, keep reading for our expert insights. 

Recognizing the signs of ADHD

One of the first steps in determining whether your child should be tested for ADHD is understanding the common signs of the disorder. 

ADHD symptoms most often fall into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Children with ADHD may show symptoms that fall under each category, such as:

Inattention

Some of the signs of inattention include difficulty sustaining attention, frequent careless mistakes, losing things often, being easily distracted, and avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort.

Hyperactivity and impulsivity

Some signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity include fidgeting, inability to stay seated, excessive talking, interrupting others, and acting without thinking.

These behaviors may be noticeable at home, school, or play. Consider an evaluation if you observe these symptoms consistently over six months or more.

Age, developmental, and genetic considerations

Children develop at different rates, and what might be typical behavior for one age group could be a sign of ADHD in another. 

ADHD is usually diagnosed in children between the ages of 6 and 12, but symptoms can appear as early as preschool. 

It’s important to distinguish between age-appropriate behaviors and those that may point to ADHD. 

For example, while younger children are naturally more active and less focused, if your child seems especially inattentive or hyperactive compared to peers, talk to your provider at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics.

In addition, ADHD often runs in families, so knowing your family's medical history can help in deciding whether to have your child evaluated. 

If you, your partner, or other close relatives have been diagnosed with ADHD or exhibited similar symptoms, your child may be at a higher risk. 

Sharing this information with your child’s pediatrician can be key in assessing whether testing is appropriate.

Impact on daily life

Another factor in deciding whether to have your child tested for ADHD is the effect their behavior has on daily life. 

Consider whether your child’s behavior is causing significant problems in multiple areas, such as:

School performance

If your child has school-related issues, like difficulty paying attention in class, failing to complete assignments, or consistently receiving poor grades, it could be related to ADHD.

Social interactions

Social problems, such as trouble making or keeping friends, frequent conflicts with peers, or being perceived as overly aggressive or withdrawn, are reasons to talk to your pediatrician.

Home life

If you notice your child has challenges following routines, frequent arguments, or difficulty with chores and other responsibilities, it could be a sign of ADHD.

Talk to a provider at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics if your child's symptoms in these areas disrupt their daily life and cause distress for them or your family.  

When to seek professional help

If you’re noticing signs of ADHD in your child and they’re struggling in different aspects of their life, it’s important to seek professional help. 

A board-certified pediatrician specializing in ADHD, like those at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics, can provide a thorough evaluation. 

This process typically involves questionnaires, behavior assessments, and sometimes direct observation or academic testing. 

Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, which may include psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), lifestyle changes, parent training, educational support, and any necessary medication. 

Schedule a consultation with our team of ADHD experts at The Center for Advanced Pediatrics in Darien or Norwalk, Connecticut, and learn how we can support your child’s development and well-being.