Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.
John Lennon
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to focus, their impulse control, and their energy levels. It is one of the most common mental health conditions in children and often continues into adolescence and adulthood. We do not fully understand what causes it, however research suggests it is a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors. Early intervention can make a significant difference for children with ADHD.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to focus, their impulse control, and their energy levels. It is one of the most common mental health conditions in children and often continues into adolescence and adulthood. We do not fully understand what causes it, however research suggests it is a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors. Early intervention can make a significant difference for children with ADHD.
What are the Signs of ADHD in Kids?
- Can not sustain attention to tasks or play
- Makes careless mistakes
- Can not organise tasks or activities
- Avoids tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Loses items necessary for tasks (e.g. school supplies)
- Easily distracted by external stimuli
- Forgets daily activities
- Fidgets or taps excessively
- Can not sit when expected
- Talks excessively or blurts out answers
- Can’t wait for their turn
- Interrupts or intrudes on others’ conversations or games
What are the Signs of ADHD in Kids?
- Can not sustain attention to tasks or play
- Makes careless mistakes
- Can not organise tasks or activities
- Avoids tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Loses items necessary for tasks (e.g. school supplies)
- Easily distracted by external stimuli
- Forgets daily activities
- Fidgets or taps excessively
- Can not sit when expected
- Talks excessively or blurts out answers
- Can’t wait for their turn
- Interrupts or intrudes on others’ conversations or games
Book an Appointment
Book your in-person or telemedicine appointment with us today!
How do I Know if My Child has ADHD?
If your child consistently exhibits several of the above symptoms across multiple settings (e.g. at home and school) then it may be ADHD. All children exhibit some of these behaviours from time to time but in ADHD the symptoms are more severe, more frequent and interfere with daily life and development. A formal diagnosis involves an assessment at Happy Kids, which may include interviews, standardised questionnaires, and input from parents and teachers. Early consultation with a Happy Kids Pediatrician can ensure your child gets the right care and support for their needs.
How do I Know if My Child has ADHD?
If your child consistently exhibits several of the above symptoms across multiple settings (e.g. at home and school) then it may be ADHD. All children exhibit some of these behaviours from time to time but in ADHD the symptoms are more severe, more frequent and interfere with daily life and development. A formal diagnosis involves an assessment at Happy Kids, which may include interviews, standardised questionnaires, and input from parents and teachers. Early consultation with a Happy Kids Pediatrician can ensure your child gets the right care and support for their needs.
How We Treat ADHD at Happy Kids
Diagnosing and managing ADHD is a team effort that includes not only your pediatrician, but also the teachers and the parents. Diagnosis and treatment can also include the child’s daycare provider and other caregivers like grandparents, therapists, and coaches. Often the symptoms of ADHD can be traced through generations. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports diagnosis and treatment in children as young as 4 years old. ADHD not only affects the child in the school setting and with peers, but it also strains family dynamics. In addition, ADHD may be accompanied by other diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, and learning disorders. There is much that can be done to help a child with ADHD succeed in school and at home. Parents can choose medication or therapy, or both with the right information. We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation, Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD released in October 2019.How We Treat ADHD at Happy Kids
Diagnosing and managing ADHD is a team effort that includes not only your pediatrician, but also the teachers and the parents. Diagnosis and treatment can also include the child’s daycare provider and other caregivers like grandparents, therapists, and coaches. Often the symptoms of ADHD can be traced through generations. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports diagnosis and treatment in children as young as 4 years old. ADHD not only affects the child in the school setting and with peers, but it also strains family dynamics. In addition, ADHD may be accompanied by other diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, and learning disorders. There is much that can be done to help a child with ADHD succeed in school and at home. Parents can choose medication or therapy, or both with the right information. We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation, Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD released in October 2019.Book an Appointment
Book your in-person or telemedicine appointment with us today!
Clinic Hours
Mon-Sat: 8:00am – 7:00pm
Sun: Office Closed
For same day appointment, contact us or visit our portal.