Signs Your Child Might Benefit From ADHD Testing
As many as seven million children in the United States have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a condition that occurs because of differences in a child’s brain development and brain activity, and it happens to be one of the most common disorders diagnosed in children.
Often, parents feel overwhelmed with the thought of having their child diagnosed with ADHD, but it is a manageable condition that doesn’t have to negatively affect your child’s life. One of the most important things you can do if you suspect your child may have this condition is to seek out ADHD testing for kids.
Here is what you need to know about ADHD signs in children and the benefits of getting an accurate diagnosis as early as possible.
What Are Common Signs of ADHD in Children?
In Florida, ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood and sometimes as early as two or three years old. Signs of ADHD in kids tend to fall into two main categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.
Signs of inattention include:
- Having trouble staying focused
- Avoiding or disliking tasks that require focusing
- Being easily distracted
- Losing items they need for activities or tasks
- Having trouble organizing activities and tasks
- Appearing not to listen
Forgetting to do certain daily activities is another key indicator as well.
Signs of impulsivity and hyperactivity include:
- Talking too much
- Having trouble doing anything quietly
- Constantly fidgeting or squirming
- Being in constant motion
- Struggling to wait their turn
These signs can be slightly different in girls than boys. For example, girls can appear withdrawn or unmotivated. They could also be more easily upset or verbally aggressive. Because of the difference in signs, girls often go undiagnosed.
When Should a Parent Consider ADHD Testing for Their Child?
If you’ve noticed that your child’s behavior negatively impacts their schoolwork, affects others around them, or makes daily tasks more difficult and routines a struggle, you may want to consider seeking out testing for your child. ADHD diagnosis results can point to ways to address these challenges.
Crucially, if you see that your child is frustrated or unhappy, an evaluation could offer answers.
How Does ADHD Affect Children?
ADHD causes children to struggle with paying attention and feeling more impulsive and hyperactive than others in their age group. The condition can also make it very difficult for them to naturally develop the skills that control behavior, activity, attention, and emotions.
How Early Can a Child Get ADHD Testing?
ADHD testing for kids can take place as early as four, though some children have been diagnosed even earlier. Because a child’s behavior can change rapidly, some parents choose to wait a few months after they begin noticing signs, but it is always better to get answers as soon as you can so that you can begin helping your child.
What Can ADHD Testing Reveal About a Child’s Learning and Behavior?
ADHD testing for kids can help you better understand that the way they behave is the result of a different brain development. They’re not just acting out but are instead having trouble with self-regulation. The testing can also reveal why they may struggle with certain school tasks or why they may be a bit behind their peers.
All of this makes a difference in how they see the world and how others see them, which can result in better outcomes.
What Is Involved in an ADHD Evaluation?
An ADHD assessment first involves having an in-depth conversation with a healthcare provider. You can speak about the signs you’ve noticed as well as about your family history. If there are any family members who have received an ADHD diagnosis, it can help the evaluation process to let the provider know.
Then, the actual testing process begins. Your child’s cognitive abilities, executive functioning, academic skills, and social well-being will all be assessed. Behavioral tests can help see how your child’s behaviors compare to others in their age group, while psychological tests measure how your child thinks.
Once the evaluation is over, the provider creates a report that states what they found and schedules a meeting with you to address the results and help you prepare for the next steps.
What Are the Benefits of Testing for ADHD in the Early Development Years?
Early ADHD testing for kids can help you understand what your child needs to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. With timely interventions, your child can avoid suffering academically while also benefiting from a boost in their self-esteem and learning how to better manage social situations.
The longer it takes to begin addressing ADHD, the more likely it is that co-occurring conditions can rear their heads. Children with ADHD often develop anxiety and depression, as well as oppositional defiant disorder. By intervening early in the process and ensuring your child receives appropriate therapy, you can help them avoid these issues.
Once you have a diagnosis, you and your child’s care team can start planning the appropriate treatment options, like behavioral therapy and, in some instances, medication. A diagnosis can help your child’s school better address their needs, too. That’s a crucial piece in the puzzle, allowing your child to receive another level of support.
What Do I Do if My Child Is Diagnosed With ADHD?
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Speaking with your child’s care team can help you learn about the various treatment strategies available. Because each child is unique, finding the right combination of care can take time.
You want to speak with your child’s school to see about the learning arrangements that can be made for them. For example, you can opt for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan, along with tutoring and targeted assistance.
Get Answers From Measuring Minds Today
If you have noticed signs that point to a developmental condition like ADHD in your child, one of the most important things you can do for their well-being is to opt for testing. ADHD testing for kids can offer the answers you need to start putting together an effective treatment plan.
At Measuring Minds, we conduct private psycho-educational evaluations to bring answers to concerned parents. Our convenient, detail-oriented evaluations are appropriate for people of all ages. Contact our team at Measuring Minds to schedule an evaluation in South Florida today.
