Understanding ADHD Screening

If your child frequently daydreams, forgets things, or doesn’t complete tasks, they could have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD. Your pediatrician can determine if your child has ADHD by performing an ADHD screening. Drs. Kristine Liberty, Steven Kovar, and Jessica Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics in Plainfield, IL, offer comprehensive children’s health services, including ADHD screening and treatment.

What You Need To Know About ADHD and ADHD Screening

Your child may benefit from an ADHD screening if you notice that your child is:

• Performing repetitive movements like hand and foot tapping
• Having difficulty remaining seated for extended periods
• Running or climbing at inappropriate times
• Blurting out answers to questions
• Talking excessively
• Having difficulty focusing on details
• Having difficulty listening and following directions
• Having poor organizational skills
• Frequently losing items
• Being frequently distracted or forgetful

An ADHD screening is an important tool to determine if your child has ADHD. The ADHD screening involves several steps, including:

• Recording your child’s behavioral patterns
• Performing behavioral tests
• Talking with you, your child, and other family members about your child’s behavior

If your child does have ADHD, your pediatrician may recommend several therapies, including:

• Behavioral therapy with both child and parent, focusing on minimizing inappropriate, destructive behaviors
• Lifestyle modifications, including dietary restrictions like reducing sugar intake, increasing vitamins and nutrients, and exercising
• Medication therapy includes medications to improve brain function and increase the ability to focus

Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can have some serious consequences, which can continue into adulthood, including:

• Poor grades
• Harmful behaviors
• Problems keeping friends
• Belligerent, aggressive behaviors
• Mood swings, depression, and frustration
• Physical growth problems
• Difficulty sleeping

Want To Know More About ADHD Screening?

You want your child to thrive and do well. Early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD are critical to helping your child enjoy a great life. To find out more about ADHD signs, symptoms, screening, and treatment, call Dr. Liberty, Dr. Kovar, or Dr. Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics in Plainfield, IL. You can reach them in the office by calling (815) 609-5437 (KIDS). Call today.