If your child struggles to complete their school assignments, home chores, or many other important things, you may think your child has a learning disability. Although learning disabilities can affect a child's growth and development, so can ADHD. Learn more about ADHD and whether or not your child's exhibiting symptoms of the condition below.
What Are the Main Symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is one of several neurodevelopmental conditions that affect the brain's nervous system and how it functions. The condition changes the way a child acts, behaves, learns, and uses their thinking skills. Unless parents know the symptoms of ADHD, they may think their child has a learning disability.
The symptoms of ADHD can vary from child to child. However, children who suffer from ADHD often struggle to get along with other people, focus on tasks, and remember simple instructions. Some children may act out or become restless in private and public settings, such as in school or at home.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can get worse with age. If your child exhibits the ADHD symptoms above and needs treatment for it, have a pediatrician or doctor evaluate them for the condition soon.
What Should You Expect During the Evaluation?
A pediatrician can use an evaluation to diagnose your child for ADHD or something else that affects their behavior and ability to learn. The evaluation can examine your child's cognitive abilities, growth and development, and social skills. The evaluation also examines your child's ability to:
- Organize steps, items, or assignments
- Memorize or retain information
- Follow written and verbal instructions
If your child has a learning disability and not ADHD, a doctor can refer you to specialists who can treat your loved one. Your child may require special learning classes or activities to improve in school and at home.
If your child has symptoms of ADHD, a doctor can provide treatment for it. The treatments may include medication therapy to control your child's impulses and behavior. The medications help stimulate the nerves in your child's brain so that they have better control over their responses and behavior.
Behavioral therapy may be another treatment available to your child. Therapy teaches your child how to interact with other people in school and at home. Your child also learns how to respond positively to things that may cause them stress in life. Your loved one may experience other valuable things in behavioral therapy as well.
If you suspect your child has ADHD or a learning disability, contact a doctor or pediatrician today. They can provide more information regarding ADHD evaluation.
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