Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a common behavioral disorder that affects about 10% of school-age children. Boys are about three times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with it, though it's not yet understood why. Kids with ADHD act without thinking, are hyperactive, and have trouble focusing. They may understand what's expected of them but have trouble following through because they can't sit still, pay attention, or focus on details.

Symptoms of ADHD

  • Has trouble staying focused; is easily distracted or gets bored with a task before it’s completed
  • Appears not to listen when spoken to
  • Has difficulty remembering things and following instructions; doesn’t pay attention to details or makes careless mistakes
  • Has trouble staying organized, planning ahead, and finishing projects
  • Frequently loses or misplaces homework, books, toys, or other items
  • Constantly fidgets and squirms
  • Has difficulty sitting still, playing quietly, or relaxing
  • Moves around constantly, often runs or climbs inappropriately
  • Talks excessively
  • May have a quick temper or “short fuse” 
  • Acts without thinking
  • Guesses, rather than taking time to solve a problem or blurts out answers in class without waiting to be called on or hear the whole question
  • Intrudes on other people’s conversations or games
  • Often interrupts others; says the wrong thing at the wrong time
"To be upset about what you don't have is to waste what you do have."

- Ken Keyes Jr

Helpful Resources For ADHD

CHADD. Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), is an organization providing education, advocacy and support for individuals with ADHD
The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health. NFFCMH is a national family-run organization linking more than 120 chapters and state organizations focused on the issues of children and youth with emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs and their families.
About.com. Great AD/HD column written by Keath Low. Keath posts new content each week that is full of information, support and ideas you can use. Her past columns provide an excellent on-line resource for nearly any ADHD related topic you can think of.