It’s common for 4- and 5-year-olds to have endless energy, short attention spans, and big emotions—but how do you know when it’s more than just typical behaviour? ADHD in 4 and 5 year olds can show up early, and recognizing the signs in preschoolers is the first step toward getting the proper support. In this post, we’ll explore how ADHD presents in young children, why early diagnosis matters, and how parents and caregivers can help children thrive.
Understanding ADHD in 4 and 5 Year Olds
Recognizing ADHD in 4 and 5 year olds can be difficult. Yet it bears the same symptoms as in older children. Children with ADHD are constantly moving, seeking activities, are impulsive, irritable, easily distracted, have a hard time winding down to sleep, stay awake in bed for hours, are up early in the morning, and have the same energy level as the day before.
How ADHD in 4 and 5 Year Olds Affects Daily Life
Family dynamics can become strained, siblings can be adversely affected, and parents can be exhausted. Simple activities, such as attending church and going to the playground, become difficult. Rewards and punishment to streamline behavior are ineffective. No one is in control—especially the child with undiagnosed ADHD—because it is really not the child’s fault.
Why Children with ADHD Struggle to Follow Directions
They are not able to control their impulsivity and irritability. They immediately forget they were told to stay seated and keep their hands to themselves. Their self-esteem spirals down as they try to follow directions, and yet they end up doing exactly what they were told not to because their brains just cannot keep up. Whatever they were told is out of their little heads the very next minute—not because they are not smart or don’t care, but because they are mentally unable to compute and execute directions in a brain that is constantly changing the influx of thoughts and ideas for them, pretty much like changing channels on a TV.
The Role of Parents and Daycare Providers in Diagnosis
Parents and daycare providers play a vital role in providing observations that can lead to an ADHD diagnosis. Having a diagnosis opens doors for these children. Not only are their challenges understood, but they are also finally heard, and they can receive treatment.
Treatment Options for Preschoolers with ADHD
When it comes to ADHD in 4 and 5 year olds, treatment options can make a meaningful difference. Therapy can be effective, and medications—such as stimulants like Adderall or nonstimulants like guanfacine—may help children slow down enough to function at a level that meets expectations and supports success.
Support at School: 504 Plans and IEPs
Even without the use of therapy and medications, kindergartners with an ADHD diagnosis can qualify for state-funded 504 plans and IEPs to help them with academics and behaviors. Having a diagnosis is like adding a tool to your child’s toolbox to help them accomplish goals and tasks.
Talk to a Pediatrician About ADHD
If you think your child has ADHD, it is probably a good idea to consult your pediatrician. At Happy Kids Pediatrics we excel at helping children with ADHD. We can be reached at 913-355-9953 or by email contactus@happykidspeds.com. We are located at 605 E. Main St, Gardner KS 66030. Feel free to walk in or call ahead. We are here to help.
