Is It ADHD or Just Being a Kid? A Guide for Parents

Kids are supposed to be energetic, forgetful, and easily distracted at times. So when a teacher mentions your child “can’t sit still” or “isn’t paying attention,” it’s hard to know whether it’s a normal stage or something more. Here’s how to tell the difference.

Signs that may point to ADHD

ADHD shows up in two main ways, and many kids have a mix of both.

Inattention

• Trouble staying focused on tasks or play.
• Seems not to listen, even when spoken to directly.
• Often loses things like homework, jackets, or pencils.
• Starts tasks but doesn’t finish them.
• Is easily distracted by sounds or activity around them.

Hyperactivity and impulsivity

• Fidgets, squirms, or can’t stay seated.
• Talks a lot or blurts out answers.
• Has a hard time waiting their turn.
• Interrupts others or acts before thinking.

What makes it ADHD, not just childhood

The difference is in how much, how long, and where. With ADHD, these behaviors are more intense than in other kids the same age, last for at least six months, and show up in more than one setting, like at home and at school. They also get in the way of learning, friendships, or family life.

Girls and quieter kids are often missed. Instead of bouncing off the walls, they may daydream, seem “spacey,” or quietly fall behind.

Why an evaluation matters

Other things can look like ADHD, including anxiety, trouble sleeping, learning differences, hearing or vision problems, or stress at home. A careful evaluation looks at the whole picture, gathers input from parents and teachers, and checks for these other causes. For bilingual children, it also matters that the evaluation accounts for language, so learning a second language isn’t mistaken for an attention problem.

How parents can help

• Keep routines predictable, with a visual schedule if it helps.
• Give one instruction at a time, and make eye contact first.
• Break homework into short chunks with movement breaks.
• Praise effort quickly and specifically.
• Work with the school, which may be able to offer support or accommodations.

With the right support, which can include therapy, parent coaching, school accommodations, and sometimes medication, kids with ADHD can thrive.

NeuroCare PI offers ADHD evaluation and treatment in Salt Lake City for children and adults, in English and Spanish. Request an appointment and we’ll walk you through the process.