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Ashleigh Rielly

Does my child have ADHD? Signs to watch for

  • Writer: Ashleigh Rielly
    Ashleigh Rielly
  • 3 days ago
  • 3 min read

Important Notice: This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute, and should not be interpreted as, a psychological diagnosis or clinical advice. Every child is unique, and concerns about your child's development, learning, or behaviour should always be assessed by a qualified, HPCSA-registered professional through the appropriate channels.


Does my child have ADHD? Signs to watch for and what to do next


One of the most common concerns parents bring to educational psychologists is whether their child might have Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is a question asked by thousands of South African parents every year, and it is a completely valid one. Understanding the signs, and knowing what to do next, can make a meaningful difference in your child's learning journey.


What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are inconsistent with a child's developmental level and that interfere significantly with daily functioning (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2022). It is one of the most researched and diagnosed childhood conditions globally, and South African children are not exempt.

It is important to understand that ADHD exists on a spectrum, and no two children present in exactly the same way. Some children show primarily inattentive symptoms, others are predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and many present with a combination of both (APA, 2022).


Does my child have ADHD - common signs of ADHD in children


Inattentive Presentation

Children who present with primarily inattentive symptoms may:

•       Struggle to sustain attention on tasks or activities, particularly those that require mental effort

•       Frequently make careless mistakes in schoolwork

•       Appear not to listen when spoken to directly

•       Have difficulty organising tasks and activities

•       Lose important items such as stationery, books, or sports equipment

•       Be easily distracted by unrelated stimuli

•       Forget daily activities and routines


Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

Children with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive symptoms may:

•       Fidget excessively or leave their seats when staying seated is expected

•       Run or climb in situations where it is inappropriate

•       Be unable to engage in activities quietly

•       Talk excessively and interrupt others' conversations

•       Struggle to wait their turn in games or group situations

•       Blurt out answers before questions are completed


A graphic representation of the mind with the wording ADHD.

ADHD at school: what teachers often report

Teachers frequently observe the academic and social impact of ADHD before parents do. Common school-based concerns include a child who is disruptive in class, cannot complete tasks in the allotted time, has inconsistent academic performance, or struggles to maintain friendships. Barkley (2015) notes that impairments in executive functioning, the brain's management system for planning, organisation, and self-regulation, lie at the heart of ADHD's impact on school performance.


It is worth noting that many children with ADHD are highly intelligent and may perform adequately at school for several years before their coping strategies can no longer compensate for their difficulties. Academic demands increase significantly as children progress through grades, which is often when ADHD becomes more apparent (Loe & Feldman, 2007).


Could It Be Something Else?

Several other conditions can mimic or co-occur with ADHD, including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, sleep disorders, and hearing difficulties (APA, 2022). This is precisely why a formal assessment - conducted by a qualified professional - is essential before any conclusions are drawn. A comprehensive psychoeducational assessment examines multiple areas of functioning and considers all possible contributing factors.


What Should You Do If You Are Concerned?

If you recognise several of the signs described above in your child, the recommended steps are:


  1. Speak with your child's class teacher or learning support coordinator about your concerns and request written feedback on your child's classroom behaviour and academic performance.

  2. Consult your child's paediatrician to rule out any medical or physiological causes for the behaviour.

  3. Request a referral to, or independently contact, an HPCSA-registered educational psychologist for a comprehensive psychoeducational assessment.

  4. Avoid self-diagnosing your child based on online checklists or information alone. ADHD is a clinical diagnosis that requires professional evaluation.


An educational psychologist will conduct a thorough assessment that includes cognitive testing, academic achievement measures, behavioural rating scales completed by parents and teachers, and a clinical interview. The resulting report provides a clear picture of your child's strengths and challenges and outlines specific recommendations for home and school.


Ready to take the next step? Contact me, Ashleigh Rielly, HPCSA-registered Educational Psychologist in Howick, KZN — serving families across KwaZulu-Natal.



References

  • American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787

  • Barkley, R. A. (2015). Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A handbook for diagnosis and treatment (4th ed.). Guilford Press.

  • Loe, I. M., & Feldman, H. M. (2007). Academic and educational outcomes of children with ADHD. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 32(6), 643–654. https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsl048

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