Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often associated with an energetic, impulsive child who struggles to sit still. While those are common traits, ADHD can present itself in many subtle and surprising ways that often go unnoticed. While those are common traits, ADHD can present itself in many subtle and surprising ways that often go unnoticed.
Spotting these less apparent signs early in a child’s life can make a world of difference in helping them succeed both at school and in social settings.
We’re diving into 15 unexpected signs of ADHD that parents might not recognise straight away. By understanding these, you’ll get to know your child’s unique needs better and find the best ways to support them.
1. Hyperfocus on Specific Interests
ADHD is often associated with difficulty concentrating, but many children who have ADHD have hyperfocus. This can be stressful for a parent because the child can focus intensely on activities or topics they enjoy. For many children and adults, this helps them excel at things like playing the piano or sports. However, they may hyperfocus on one thing and struggle with schoolwork.
2. Difficulty Following Multi-Step Instructions
If your child frequently forgets steps in a sequence of tasks (e.g., “Put your shoes on, grab your bag, and meet me by the door”), it might not be a sign of defiance but rather a difficulty with working memory – a common issue for children with ADHD.
3. Frequent Emotional Outbursts
Managing emotions can be especially challenging for children with ADHD. A small frustration can feel huge, and their emotions might seem bigger than the situation calls for. These outbursts aren’t deliberate—it’s often just their way of coping when feelings become too overwhelming to handle in the moment.
4. Trouble Winding Down at Night
Many children with ADHD struggle to transition from the stimulation of the day to a calmer state for bedtime. They may have racing thoughts, difficulty relaxing, or an unexplainable surge of energy just as it’s time to settle down.
5. Constant Daydreaming
Daydreaming is a lesser-known hallmark of inattentive ADHD, which can look very different from the hyperactive form. A child may appear to “zone out” frequently, seem forgetful, or struggle to keep track of conversations or tasks.
6. Disorganisation and Clutter
Children with ADHD very often find it hard to organise. Very often, their bedrooms look like a tornado has rattled through them, and they are constantly losing things like books, toys and homework. It’s not carelessness or even laziness. Keeping track of belongings can feel overwhelming for them, which is very common for someone living with ADHD.
7. Sensitivity to Noise, Smells, or Textures
Some children with ADHD experience the world in a much more intense way because of heightened sensory sensitivities. They might feel overwhelmed by loud noises, find certain clothing textures unbearable, or struggle with foods with specific smells or textures. These sensitivities can make everyday experiences more challenging and are often misunderstood.
8. Interrupting Conversations
A child with ADHD will often interrupt when in conversations; it might feel rude, but usually, they don’t realise that they are doing it. In many cases, they will speak out and interrupt because they are worried they will lose their train of thought. It’s not meant to be disrespectful. It’s how their brains work.
9. Difficulty Waiting
Children with ADHD have very little patience, if any at all, whether it be waiting in line, waiting for their turn in a game or for a reward. They may show signs of frustration and restlessness even if there is only a short time to wait.
10. Frequent Forgetfulness
Forgetfulness, and I mean forgetfulness that goes way beyond misplacing things like homework and keys. A child with ADHD might forget to bring their lunch or turn in their homework. This can be incredibly frustrating for parents but is often an unintentional ADHD symptom.
11. Seeming Not to Listen
It may not be intentional if your child often seems to ignore you when you’re speaking. Children with ADHD often struggle with listening, making it very difficult for them to focus and understand instructions, no matter how simple the instructions could be. I struggled with directions and lost the train of thought after the second instruction.
12. Frequent Fidgeting
While some kids bounce off the walls, others may fidget constantly. Fidgeting is like tapping a pencil or swinging legs or fiddling with something like a coin or quite literally anything. Recent studies have shown that fidgeting can help children with ADHD self-regulate and stay engaged, so things like fidget spinners are popular.
13. Risk-Taking Behaviour
Children with ADHD may engage in risky behaviour, often due to impulsivity. That is no fear we all see, and as parents, we cringe and wince as we watch our children run faster, climb higher and take huge chances without considering the potential consequences.
14. Low Self-Esteem
Many children with ADHD experience repeated failures or criticism due to their symptoms, which can negatively impact their self-esteem. This is a massive one to look out for in children as they feel that they are inadequate or they compare themselves to their peers and feel they are not good enough.
15. Creative Thinking and Problem Solving
On a positive note, children with ADHD are often incredibly creative and innovative. They think outside the box and can approach problems with unique and imaginative solutions. This strength can sometimes mask their struggles in other areas.
What to Do If You Suspect ADHD
If you recognise several of these signs in your child, it’s important not to jump to conclusions but to consider seeking a professional evaluation. Here’s how you can take the following steps:
- Observe and Document: Record behaviours, including when they occur and any triggers you notice. This will be helpful for any professional assessments.
- Talk to Your Child’s Teacher: Teachers often have a broader perspective on how your child behaves compared to their peers. Ask for their input on your child’s focus, organisation, and behaviour in class.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Speak to your GP or a paediatrician for advice. They can refer you to specialists for a comprehensive ADHD assessment if necessary.
- Educate Yourself: Learn as much as possible about ADHD to better understand your child’s experiences and provide appropriate support.
How to Support a Child with ADHD
If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, there are many strategies you can use to help them thrive:
- Establish Routines: Having a routine is essential for a child with ADHD because it makes the child feel sec,ure and to know what’s coming is reassuring for them.
- Use Visual Reminders: Charts, sticky notes, and reminders can help them stay on track.
- Provide Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, to build their confidence.
- Encourage Physical Activity: Managing energy levels is really a great way to improve focus and manage energy levels.
- Explore Professional Support: Therapy, coaching, and sometimes medication can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Recognising the less obvious signs of ADHD can help you better support your child and ensure they get the help they need.
Every child is unique, and ADHD doesn’t define who they are ADH.D can be a superpower, but by understanding their challenges and celebrating their strengths, you can help them navigate the world with confidence.
For more parenting advice and tips on managing ADHD, explore the resources on Whoobly.com. Let’s work together to help our children become their best selves.
