ADHD symptoms at different ages
By Julie Rawe
Expert reviewed by Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, PhD, NCC, DCMHS, LMHC
Overview of ADHD symptoms
It’s not always easy to spot ADHD symptoms. That’s partly because everyone acts in ways that can look like ADHD from time to time. But kids and adults with ADHD (also known as ADD) struggle a lot more with these behaviors than other people their age.
Kids and adults with ADHD often have trouble with:
Focus
Impulse control
Managing emotions
Memory
Starting or finishing tasks
Some people with ADHD are hyperactive. This means they need to move in some way all the time.
ADHD signs can look different at different ages. Explore this list and share your concerns with your doctor. Together you can decide on next steps.
Preschool–grade 2 ADHD symptoms
Having trouble following directions, like “put on your backpack”
Getting up, fidgeting, or talking during quiet activities, like story time or while watching a TV show
Not slowing down enough to do things carefully, like writing a word or pouring cereal into a bowl
Grabbing things without permission, like a photo on the teacher’s desk or candy in a store
Having trouble remembering things the teacher just taught, like that 2 plus 2 equals 4
Getting very upset or angry over minor things, like spilling something or not catching the ball
Grades 3–7 ADHD symptoms
Putting off tasks, like writing an essay
Rushing through schoolwork
Turning in messy work with careless mistakes
Working slowly and not finishing in a reasonable amount of time
Clowning around in class and trying to get everyone’s attention
Getting restless during field trips if they’re not very interesting
Saying or doing things without thinking about the consequences
Having trouble following directions with more than one step
Teen and adult ADHD symptoms
Having trouble setting priorities and making sure the important stuff gets done
Forgetting to write down assignments or keep track of deadlines
“Spacing out” and needing to re-read information or ask people to repeat what they’ve said
Getting sidetracked from tasks that aren’t really interesting
Having a hard time making friends
Taking risks without thinking about consequences
How to help
There are many myths about ADHD that can make wondering about ADHD feel scary. Keep in mind that ADHD is very common, and a lot is known about how to help people with ADHD thrive. Here are suggestions on what to do next.
Watch a video on how ADHD is diagnosed.
Parents and caregivers: Explore steps to take if you think your child has ADHD.
Educators: Learn about classroom accommodations for ADHD.
