ADHD Symptoms Guide | Cadabam’s Child Development Center
If you’re a parent noticing that your child seems unusually forgetful, impulsive, or restless, you may be wondering whether these behaviors are part of normal development or signs of ADHD symptoms. This guide walks you through what to look for, how ADHD symptoms evolve with age, and how Cadabams CDC provides clarity and support from evaluation to evidence-based treatment.
1. Quick Snapshot: What ADHD Symptoms Look Like
ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Clinicians sort ADHD symptoms into three main “presentations”:
Inattentive Presentation
- Frequently loses school supplies or toys
- Appears not to listen when spoken to
- Struggles to follow multi-step instructions
- Makes careless mistakes in homework despite understanding the material
Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
- Runs or climbs in situations where it’s inappropriate
- Fidgets, taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat
- Blurts out answers before a question is finished
- Has difficulty waiting for a turn in games or conversations
Combined Presentation
- Meets criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms
- Most common form seen at Cadabams CDC evaluations
2. How ADHD Symptoms Change Over the Lifespan
Preschool Years
- ADHD symptoms often look like extreme “terrible twos.”
- Constant motion, loud play, and risky climbing are red flags when they occur daily across settings.
School-Age Children
- Teachers report unfinished worksheets and “day-dreaming.”
- Homework battles and social conflicts over turn-taking emerge.
Teenagers
- ADHD symptoms shift: hyperactivity becomes inner restlessness.
- Risk-taking (speeding, substance experimentation) may rise.
Adults
- Chronic lateness, missed appointments, and impulsive spending replace childhood climbing or running.
- Difficulty sustaining attention in long meetings is common.
3. Red Flags Parents & Teachers Should Never Ignore
Persistent Daydreaming or Forgetfulness
- Child forgets daily routines (brushing teeth, packing lunch) despite reminders.
Excessive Fidgeting or Running/Climbing Inappropriately
- Occurs in calm settings like restaurants or classrooms.
Interrupting, Blurting Out, Risk-Taking
- Finishes others’ sentences, grabs objects, or crosses streets without looking. Note: These behaviors must last at least six months and appear in two or more settings (home, school, or social) to meet criteria for an ADHD diagnosis.
4. Step-by-Step: How We Evaluate ADHD at Cadabam’s CDC
Initial Screening Questionnaire
- Parents and teachers complete standardized checklists online before the first visit.
Comprehensive Clinical Interview
- Clinicians discuss developmental history, sleep, diet, and family dynamics to rule out other causes.
Neuropsychological Tests & Rating Scales
- Age-appropriate tasks measure attention span, impulse control, and executive functions.
Feedback Session & Diagnosis Disclosure
- Results explained in plain language. Parents leave with a written report and next-step options.
5. Evidence-Based Interventions We Offer
Behavioral Parent Training (BPT)
- Teaches consistent routines, token economies, and calm limit-setting strategies.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Helps older children and teens manage procrastination and negative self-talk tied to ADHD symptoms.
Social Skills Groups
- Weekly practice in turn-taking, reading social cues, and conflict resolution.
School Collaboration & IEP Support
- Cadabams CDC liaises with teachers to adjust seating, deadlines, and testing conditions.