Checklist for ADHD Symptoms in Kids

Distinguishing Between the Types of ADHD

ADHD symptoms are typically grouped into two major categories: inattention (the inability to stay focused) and hyperactivity-impulsivity (impulsive behaviors that are excessive and disruptive). The determination of ADHD is largely based on whether behaviors in these categories are appropriate for the child's developmental age.

The range of symptoms can vary from child to child and lead to a variety of diagnoses broadly classified as follows:

• Inattentive type ADHD describes a child who has trouble paying attention but isn't hyperactive or impulsive.
• Hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD is defined as excessive restlessness, rashness, and fidgetiness without the characteristic lack of focus.
• Combined type ADHD has characteristics of both.

Checklist for ADHD Inattention Symptoms

According to the DSM-5, inattention can be diagnosed in children under age 16 if they exhibit six or more of the following symptoms (diagnosis only requires five or more symptoms for adolescents 17 and older):

• Often fails to pay attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities
• Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or during play activities
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Often does not follow through on instructions or fails to finish schoolwork or chores
• Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities
• Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over long periods of time
• Often loses things needed to complete tasks or activities
• Is easily distracted
• Is often forgetful in daily activities

Checklist for ADHD Hyperactivity Symptoms

Similarly, hyperactivity and impulsivity can be diagnosed in children if they exhibit six or more of the following symptoms (or five or more symptoms for individuals 17 and older):

• Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed
• Often fidgets with their hands or feet or squirms whenever seated
• Often leave their seat despite being told to sit still
• Often runs or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate
• Often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly
• Is often “on the go" as if unnaturally driven
• Often talks excessively
• Often have trouble waiting for their turn
• Often interrupts or intrudes on other's conversations or activities

Defining ADHD Combined Type

The combined type of ADHD is characterized by symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Children with this type exhibit symptoms of inattention along with hyperactive and impulsive symptoms.

To be diagnosed with the combined type presentation of ADHD, children must exhibit six or more symptoms of inattention and six or more symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity. These symptoms must be present for at least six months and must not be caused by another condition.

ADHD Symptoms in Girls vs. Boys

Research suggests that ADHD often presents differently in girls and boys. While boys with ADHD are more likely to have hyperactive/impulsive or combined-type presentations, girls are more likely to have inattentive ADHD. 

Boys are also more likely to exhibit externalizing symptoms associated with ADHD such as acting out and being aggressive. They may also have hyperactive or impulsive symptoms such as constantly moving, interrupting others, and engaging in physical actions at inappropriate times.

Conversely, girls with ADHD are more likely to experience inattentive symptoms such as not paying attention, not listening, being easily distracted, and losing focus. Other symptoms of ADHD in girls can include being withdrawn, disorganized, unmotivated, shy, and getting easily upset.

Because boys' symptoms tend to be more disruptive, they are often diagnosed with the condition more frequently than girls. Girls' symptoms such as shyness and daydreaming are often seen as personality characteristics, so they are often missed, making them less likely to get help.

Getting an ADHD Diagnosis

For ADHD to be definitively diagnosed, symptoms must meet four key criteria:

1. Inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms must have been present before the age of 12.
2. Symptoms must be present in two or more settings, such as at home, with friends, or in school.
3. Symptoms must interfere with or reduce the child's ability to function at school, in social situations, or when performing everyday tasks
4. Symptoms cannot be explained by any other mental condition (such as a mood disorder) or occur as part of a schizophrenic or psychotic episode.

Additional Help for ADHD

If a child is diagnosed with ADHD, their healthcare provider can determine a treatment plan that is right for their needs. This treatment may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two. Other strategies can also be helpful, including behavioral approaches, parent training, and social skills training.

Parents may also find it beneficial to join a support group for parents of children with ADHD. It's also important to help the child learn more about their diagnosis and treatment plan.

Working with the child's physician or therapist, having conversations with the child, and looking for positive role models can be helpful. The child may find it helpful to know that there are many famous people with this condition, including celebrities and athletes. Help them recognize the strengths of people with ADHD.

Going through a checklist for ADHD can help us better understand some of the symptoms of ADHD in children. However, if ADHD is suspected, the next step is to talk to a healthcare professional for further evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.