ADHD is a brain disorder marked by an inability to pay attention and/or and impulsivity that impedes normal functioning. It affects children and adults alike. The symptoms of ADHD are broad in scope and will differ depending on which kind of ADHD that you have.

There are 3 different types of ADHD:

• inattentive type
• hyperactive type
• impulsive type

Each type has its own symptoms, which we will discuss in this article. More specifically, let’s look at the symptoms for children, ages 3-18.

Inattentive ADHD Symptoms Checklist:

• Does not pay attention to details and makes careless mistakes on classroom assignments, work, or other activities.
• Has trouble paying attention in tasks or play activities.
• Does listen when spoken to directly.
• Does not follow instructions or finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to an oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) or failure to understand instructions).
• Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
• Avoids engaging in tasks that require sustained effort (such as schoolwork or homework).
• Loses things that are essential for classroom activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
• Forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactive ADHD Symptoms Checklist:

• Fidgets with appendages and squirms in seat.
• Does not remain seated in situations in which remaining seated is expected.
• Plays excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate.
• Has a problem playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly.
• Appears “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor.”
• Talks excessively.

Impulsive ADHD Symptoms Checklist:

• Blurts out the answers before the questions have been completed.
• Has difficulty awaiting turn.
• Interrupts others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).
• Most hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment were present before age 7.
• Impairment is present in two or more settings (e.g., at school [or work] and at home).
• Clear evidence of significant impairment in the areas of social, academic, or occupational functioning.
• Symptoms are not accounted for by another mental disorder.