ADHD in Young Children – what you need to know

What is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how children think, behave, and manage their impulses. Children with ADHD might find it harder than others to focus, sit still, or wait their turn.

It’s more than just “being energetic” – and it’s not caused by parenting or poor behaviour. It’s linked to the way a child’s brain develops and processes information.

Is it ADHD – or just being a toddler?

Toddlers are curious, energetic, and still learning how to manage their emotions.

It’s completely normal for children under 5 to:

• Flit between activities quickly
• Struggle to sit still or take turns
• Have big feelings and loud meltdowns
• Say “no!” a lot
• Seem “on the go” from morning to bedtime

These behaviours can look like ADHD, but they’re usually just part of growing up.

So why wait for assessment?

ADHD is a condition that affects how the brain develops over time. To make an accurate diagnosis, health professionals need to see:

• Patterns of behaviour that last at least 6 months
• Consistency across different places – like at home and at nursery or school
• Impact on learning, friendships, or daily life
• That these behaviours are more extreme than for other children of the same age

In the early years, it can be hard to tell the difference between ADHD and typical development. Within Hertfordshire assessments for ADHD will not be accepted until the child is at least 5 years of age when expectations for focus and self-control increase, when a clearer picture of how your child is doing in different settings.

In the meantime, you don’t need to wait to get support. Help with routines, emotional regulation, and parenting strategies can make a real difference—whatever the underlying cause.

What are the early signs?

Some signs of ADHD might show up in toddlers and young children, but these can also be part of typical development. That’s why diagnosis isn’t usually made until school age, when symptoms are more consistent and start to affect everyday life.

Signs that might suggest ADHD include:

• Very short attention span – even for activities they enjoy
• Seeming not to listen, even when spoken to directly
• Constantly on the move – running, climbing, or fidgeting more than other children
• Talking a lot or interrupting others frequently
• Struggling to follow instructions or finish tasks
• Risky behaviour or little sense of danger
• Frequent, intense tantrums or emotional outbursts

Important: Lots of toddlers and preschoolers show these behaviours sometimes. But if they’re happening most of the time, in different places (like home and nursery), and causing problems for your child or others, it may be time to look into support.

Other things to consider

Sometimes, other things can look like ADHD or make symptoms worse:

• Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality
• Big life changes or stress
• Sensory sensitivities or autism
• Speech or learning difficulties
• Anxiety or trauma
• Diet and routine

That’s why professionals will want to get a full picture – not just look at the behaviour in isolation.

How is ADHD assessed?

ADHD isn’t diagnosed by one quick test. It involves:

• Gathering information from parents, nursery or school staff, and health professionals
• Looking at behaviour across different settings – not just one place
• Checking how long the symptoms have been present (at least 6 months)
• Considering other possible causes or needs

Diagnosis is usually made by a specialist, such as a paediatrician or child psychiatrist. For children under 5, parenting support and behavioural strategies are the first step.

What support is available?

Even if your child doesn’t have a formal diagnosis, there are many ways to help:

For parents:

• Behavioural advice and coaching (e.g. through parenting programmes)
• Emotional support and tools to manage everyday challenges
• Practical tips for home: consistent routines, clear instructions, regular sleep, calming activities

For your child:

• Extra help in nursery or school
• Therapeutic play or emotional support
• Time with professionals like a speech therapist or occupational therapist, if needed

When to ask for help

If your child is:

• Often finding everyday routines very difficult
• Getting into trouble at nursery or struggling to settle
• Showing ongoing signs of inattention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity that don’t improve with changes to routine or approach
• Causing concern for you or your child’s keyworker or health visitor

If you have concerns do speak to your Health Visitor,  School Nurse, GP, or early years SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). They can guide you through support options or referrals to a specialist.

Remember you don’t have to wait for a diagnosis to get support.

Final thought for parents

It’s natural to worry or feel unsure – but you’re not alone. Whether your child has ADHD or just needs extra support, there are tools, strategies and people ready to help.

Your relationship with your child is what matters most. With understanding and the right support, children with ADHD can thrive.

Useful Links

The ADHD Foundation

Young Minds – ADHD and children