What are the signs of ADHD in the early years?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be difficult to diagnose in very young children as so many of the features associated with this disorder, such as being hyperactive and impulsive, are completely normal in this age group. Children who are going through a disruptive time such as moving house, divorce or another stressful event may also display similar symptoms, but these should improve over time. This page is a useful starting point to help you decide whether you should go and see your GP.
Children who are iron deficient may sometimes have similar symptoms and low iron is not uncommon in toddlers. There are various rating scales available but these need to be used with a proper clinical assessment to be useful.
The restless and excitable child
A helpful look at what’s normal and what can make children behave over-actively from The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Information about common signs, diagnosis and treatment from Great Ormond Street Hospital
ADHD support for your child-Parents Advice Guide (YoungMinds)
My child has been diagnosed with ADHD and I want to know more
This link takes you to ADISS which is a national charity providing information including a good section on “Common questions”. Most areas also have local support groups.
Books to help toddlers understand and cope with their feelings and behaviours This links you to the behaviour page with some suggestions on books to read together.