Courtesy of Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center

Rates of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among children are high. A 2022 survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that more than 11 percent of children between the ages of three and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD. The CDC says that ADHC is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in the country.

The name alone sheds light on the potential impact ADHD can have on students’ academic performance. Children who struggle to remain attentive and/or sit still are likely to have problems in a traditional classroom setting. But students and their families are not helpless against ADHD. Amy, Bamrick, Clinical Director at Buffalo Hearing and Speech Director, says, “The first step that parents can take is to learn the warning signs of ADHD in children, which can be categorized into two types of behavioral problems: inattentiveness and hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

Inattentiveness.

Inattentiveness is marked by difficulty concentrating and focusing. Children experiencing inattentiveness as a byproduct of ADHD may exhibit:

  • A short attention span and being easily distracted
  • A tendency to make careless mistakes in schoolwork or when engaging in other tasks forgetfulness and a propensity to lose things
  • An inability to continue performing tasks that are tedious or time-consuming
  • Difficulty listening to or carrying out instructions
  • Constant pivoting between activities or tasks
  • Difficulty organizing tasks

Hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

Symptoms that fall under the category of hyperactivity and impulsiveness can adversely affect academic performance and also lead to difficulties with social interaction with other children and adults. Such symptoms may include:

  • An inability to sit still, especially in calm or quiet surroundings, such as a classroom
  • Constant fidgeting
  • An inability to concentrate on tasks
  • Excessive physical movement
  • Excessive talking
  • An inability to wait one’s turn
  • Acting without thinking
  • Interrupting conversations
  • Little or no sense of danger

Parents who suspect their child has ADHD are urged to speak with the child’s physician before drawing any conclusions. Many youngsters, particularly those experiencing classroom settings or other disciplined, highly structured environments for the first time, may exhibit some of the aforementioned symptoms but not have ADHD. A frank discussion with the child’s physician can help parents determine if their child is exhibiting typical childhood behaviors or perhaps showing signs of ADHD.

For recommendations on how your child’s school can help support your child’s learning, and for information on the extensive programs available at Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center, visit www.askbhsc.org, or call 716-885-8318.