Attention problems may first be seen in the preschool years when you notice your child doesn't follow through on directions such as, "put away your toys". Of course not all children who don't put away their toys when asked have attention problems, most do not.
But, if you also notice that your child can't seem to settle at one thing, moving from one activity to another without staying long, then you may want to consider whether your child has an attention problem.
When your child enters school you may hear that your child "doesn't pay attention very well" or "can't seem to concentrate" or " often doesn't finish his/her work." These are also signs that something may be amiss.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER SIGNS?
There are two other important signs. The first is being impulsive.
Many people think being impulsive means running out on the street chasing a ball. While this is impulsive behaviour there are other kinds. Children with attention problems, more often then is usual, get into "mischief". Mothers particularly notice this, because they spend a large amount of time making sure the child doesn't get into trouble. Child care-givers and grandparents may also see this kind of behaviour. As a result, mothers of children with attention problems are frequently tired and, sometimes, angry with their child. Children with attention problems have more accidents and poisonings than other children their age.
There is also an emotional impulsivity. Children with attention problems are quick to "fly off the handle" more often than is usual. They seem to have little patience and small things, such as a sticky door or a shoe that doesn't go on right away, make them angry. This emotional impulsivity is also seen with playmates or friends. Children with attention problems quickly become upset or angry when others fail to behave as they wish. As a result children with attention problems frequently don't have consistent friends or playmates. At school, these children are seen to move from group to group looking for someone to play with.
The second other important sign is being overactive, which some describe as "being hyper". This overactivity may be seen in two ways, such as a lot of running, jumping and climbing or in fidgeting and restlessness. At home and at school these overactive children are described as "always on the go" and have difficulty sitting still.
There are several other signs which are seen in children with a significant attention problem, such as difficulty learning in school, being defiant and aggressive or unhappy and sad.
WHAT ABOUT THE SIGNS IN ADULTS?
The signs for adults with an attention problem are different from those of children. However, both children and adults have problems staying with one thing for long, whether it is school work or a job. Both tend to think they aren't very good at things.
ARE THESE SIGNS SEEN ALL THE TIME?
These signs are seldom seen all the time and they are seen most often in boys. They usually occur in situations in which there is some kind of structure or behaviour expected. For example, in sports or free play situations the child with attention problems does not stand out from the others. However, when this same child is expected to pay attention and sit still these signs are more easily seen.
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CLICK HERE for more information on attention problems. Note the section "Disabilty Named ADD"