https://boards.hellobee.com/ Pregnancy, Baby and Parenting blog, by Hellobee en Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:05:46 +0000 https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2891084 Mon, 15 Jul 2019 07:22:36 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2891084@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs. Yoyo: This is exactly why it's been on my mind more recently. I do wonder if things will change as she gets older in school. As @Mrs. Green Grass said above, I constantly am wondering how the school environment will push her so I really appreciate your perspective. I'm definitely going to talk to her ped next week and we'll see how it goes. Thanks so much for sharing! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2891004 Sun, 14 Jul 2019 11:40:41 +0000 Mrs. Yoyo 2891004@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>She sounds very similar to my son, who recently received a Type 1 (inattentive) diagnosis in 2nd grade, age 7. He is extremely smart so he didn't really have any academic issues and for a while we just figured "ehhhh he's immature, summer birthday, etc." But 2nd grade for us is where the rubber started meeting the road in terms of him needing to be a more self-directed learner. His big struggle is executive function -- he has absolutely none. Like, cannot follow multi-step directions to save his life, constantly losing stuff, mind wandering constantly. His teacher suggested an eval. No, it wasn't cheap, as we went to a neuropsychologist who didn't take insurance but you don't have to do that if you're willing to wait (our understanding is that waits can be several months if you find someone who takes insurance, so that might be worth thinking about now if this is on your radar). Or you may be able to go through your ped if you're willing to have a less thorough workup -- but we were really glad to have a full slate of testing to illuminate other issues.</p> <p>It wasn't the easiest process, but I'm glad we have answers now. A diagnosis means you can get the support your kid needs to be successful in school -- without it, they may just be treated as an exasperating kid, you know? And we did start him on a low dose of meds and have seen a mostly positive outcome. I know there's a lot of fear of meds but I ultimately decided I wouldn't withhold them for any other diagnosed condition, so why would I do it here?</p> <p>Anyway, I could write so much more, but feel free to reach out. If she continues to do well in school without teachers being concerned, that may well mean there's nothing there. But if there are eventually concerns, don't fear her being "labeled." She will still be the same kid, but with more of an opportunity to succeed with the right interventions. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890954 Sat, 13 Jul 2019 16:14:04 +0000 Phillybaby2013 2890954@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs Green Grass: reading your reply and experience makes me feel differently about what we're going through. It sounds like you and your son are being supported and they are trying to give him the tools to be successful. I feel like I'm so worried that there is something "wrong" with B and that he's not going to get the help he needs when I should be advocating his strengths and work around the rest. He's in a small catholic school which we really like but I often wonder if they wouldn't be that flexible on accommodations plus the difficulty of getting extra services. Ugh, being a parent is so hard. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890953 Sat, 13 Jul 2019 15:08:26 +0000 Mrs Green Grass 2890953@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My son is 6, just finished K and sounds exactly the same. He scored off the charts on reading and math. He loves reading, but has never finished a chapter book, he prefers me reading to him. He had some issues with my finishing work. His teacher even modified by allowing him to type instead of write. I think he was just bored and didn’t want to copy her sentences/do what she wanted him to do. He’s super wiggly. Often eats with just one leg on the chair. But he could spend an hour sitting and doing an art project (or watching tv...). I think the way school is organized brings out many of these issues and that’s school’s fault (not the kid). I work in education at the high school level but my mom was an elementary teacher. It’s hard to differentiate for all different types of students but that’s what they need! Some schools are changing faster than others but keep in mind that our current system was made to create factory workers and that’s not the jobs our kids will be doing. They will be working collaboratively and creatively. We actually had a meeting the the principal and teacher and came up with a plan for my son. There’s a sensory room he can go to if he needs to move. There’s also a variety of seating choices in the room. And no one has once mentioned ADHD. He also doesn’t qualify for any special services because he is doing so well academically. I think it’s always great to talk to pediatricians, but also to keep reevaluating each year. These kids change so fast!! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890946 Sat, 13 Jul 2019 11:06:49 +0000 cyoung 2890946@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs. Carrot: no problem! I understand how hard it is. We are waiting to see if my son is on the spectrum. It's hard cause you wonder "what is normal kid or their normal development and what is something that needs to be addressed" we want to give our kids the best chance they can get and be the best parents for them. Fortunately it's not a big deal to get tested at least where we live. It depends on insurance and stuff </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890941 Sat, 13 Jul 2019 10:20:31 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890941@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Phillybaby2013: ugh that sounds so frustrating, I’m so sorry you’re dealing with it. I hope you guys find the right answer and relief for him soon. 💕 </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890940 Sat, 13 Jul 2019 10:19:23 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890940@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@cyoung: I appreciate your perspective, thanks so much for sharing! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890939 Sat, 13 Jul 2019 10:18:43 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890939@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@charleysmom: really good point, I forgot about this! She actually tested 20/40 last year but the eye doc didn’t think it was worth correction and it’s very possible it might be getting worse. Will see if there’s any change since last year. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890919 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 23:21:48 +0000 Phillybaby2013 2890919@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs. Carrot: We are not yet diagnosed but are currently leading down a path of what could be ADHD with my 6 year old son. I'm no expert but from my research and understanding the fact that your daughter has not had any issues at school or aftercare reads to me that she's probably being a normal 6 year old. She would have to exhibit difficulties in atleast 2 settings for diagnosis. My B struggled the entire year in K with behavior, sitting still, interrupting, etc. The teacher reached out to the school counselor who observed him several times in class and met with him weekly the last few months of school. Academically he is above average but his self esteem has taken a hit due to what him feels like constant correction. He has also had a hard time socially because he's not good with boundaries. We went to a social worker at a mental health practice who was not super helpful. I plan on reaching out to his pediatrician next. I put a call in to our Children's Hospital ADHD dept but have heard it takes months for a call back if they get back to you at all.<br /> It's been very difficult in my area to find pediatric psychologists/psychiatrists that accept insurance or don't charge hefty fees for treatment. A few places I called who advertised screening and treatment for ADHD cost several thousand dollars just for the testing. My husband doesn't want him labeled and is totally against medication. I hate being in this place of unknown and hope we make some progress somewhere. It's very disheartening and frustrating to see him struggle because he is so smart and loving. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890916 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 22:17:36 +0000 cyoung 2890916@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs. Carrot: I would talk with her pediatrician. As someone with ADHD and another mental illness that is genetic it's good to be open as a parent with all this. It can start young. I did great in school. I graduated top ten percent BUT I forgot things constantly. I also struggled with completing tasks and got out of my seat a lot and talked a lot in school and at home. I still struggle till this day. I wasn't "hyperactive" but I did mentally struggle and needed help. I dont take meds for it cause since being diagnosed I have learned ways to cope. A diagnosis is good cause as she gets older if she does start to struggle she will have resources to help her and will learn and be taught ways to cope. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890914 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 21:44:05 +0000 charleysmom 2890914@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>How is her vision? My 5 year old is exactly as you described and we just found out yesterday that she needs glasses (near and farsighted). The doctor explained that we may now see some improvement in her focus. I read an article today related to vision problems in young children (which now I can’t find) and it said that some signs are lack of focus, not being able to sit still, and touching everything. I think a lot is just my daughter’s personality- she’s a true extrovert but I’m curious to see if this helps her settle down a bit. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890912 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 21:37:08 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890912@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Blythe: I’ve definitely considered it. After she left preK and napping, sleep has gotten a lot better so I don’t think that’s it at this point, but definitely a good point. She’s still a natural night owl but falls asleep might faster and earlier now. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890911 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 21:35:31 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890911@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Tionn3: I’m so sorry you had to deal with all this. Part of my concern is exactly what you’re describing- having her boxed into something when there might be lots of other reasons and approaches, especially since things manifest differently in girls too. Lots of love to you, thank you for sharing. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890910 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 21:33:05 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890910@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Pollywog: I really appreciate this, thank you. You’re absolutely right, I can’t imagine what the gain of a diagnosis would be, and hadn’t really thought that way. I know I would do anything possible to avoid meds even if there was a diagnosis so your note really gave me a fresh perspective, thank you. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890905 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 20:01:43 +0000 Blythe 2890905@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Wondering if you’ve ever explored whether or not there could be a link between your daughter’s sleeping habits and her hyperactivity? ADHD kids often have trouble falling asleep, but conversely chronic sleep deprivation can also manifest itself as hyperactivity. I know you’ve posted about her lack of sleep before, so perhaps you’ve already sorted that out. If not, it might be a natural starting point for further investigation? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890886 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 17:00:43 +0000 Tionn3 2890886@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was 8 years old. My mom said I was super high energy, would interrupt, act impulsively, etc. My teacher's at school put me on the mild spectrum with the questionnaires they use for screening and diagnosis. My parents put me at the moderate level. I struggled with school (reading and math), and I honestly don't remember my parents helping me very much with school work at home. Also, I just didn't like school, I wanted to play, draw, do other activities. It's a stark difference from how my husband describes his childhood ( both his parents were teachers and helped a lot with school). I was also the youngest in my class ( born in October) so I was like 4 years old, just turning 5 when I started Kindergarten. My mom actually told me the preschool said I should stay another year, but my parents couldn't afford it. These days kids start at 5 going on 6, or at 6 years old. Honestly, it's no surprise I was 6 months to 1 year behind everyone else academically, I was 6 months to 1 year younger than everyone else! The teachers even warned my parents I needed another year of preschool! This to me just boggles my mind, especially since there is now research that is pointing to kids being on the younger end of their class being diagnosed with ADHD at a higher rate. I was put on medication right away, and it did help me concentrate, but it also did a lot of other things that weren't so great. I felt like I was trapped in a box, I didn't eat very much because the medication was an appetite suppressant, and I had trouble sleeping because it was also a stimulant. My parents did not try alternative methods before putting me on medication (though I went to a resource specialist program to help with academics), and I am still bitter because of that. The diagnosis has followed me around for a lifetime, and I still suffer from low self esteem and imposter syndrome because of it. I know this all sounds like a " down with ADHD diagnosis" rant, but it's mostly just a cautionary tale.</p> <p>I don't know what it's like nowadays with getting an ADHD diagnosis. I would probably do things differently than my parents did if it were for my own child. For your own daughter, it sounds like she is doing well in school. I believe for an ADHD diagnosis deficits have be observed in more than two settings, so both at school, home, and with friends, and the symptoms need to reduce or interfere with a good quality of social,school, and home life. If you are super concerned, and your gut is just telling you that something is up, then I would definitely bring it up with your pediatrician, but for now, I'd say watch and wait. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890859 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:39:06 +0000 Pollywog 2890859@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My thought is what would investigating/diagnosing get you? There's no problem at school. Until there is a problem, what will you gain?</p> <p>I work a lot with the ADHD crowd and think medication can be wonderful, but what is better is if they can thrive without it. I'd enjoy her energy and inquisitiveness and know it'll pass. </p> <p>I would not worry about reading chapter books. It's great some kids love reading, but it's much better for kids to be running and playing than reading all day (and I love reading. I literally run an education library)</p> <p>One trend I see is a lot of kids have to work really hard to be good at school. By good I mean not talking, staying on task, etc. When they get home they are so relieved to be "off" that they don't stop talking or sit down. The same way an introvert may go and hide in her room after a birthday party </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890856 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:32:31 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890856@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@KT326 @madison43 thanks for sharing, I appreciate the perspective. I think honestly I'm looking for some validation because I keep thinking she seems like a normal high energy kid and has always been that way but then comparison starts to sneak in and my mom is constantly on me about her lack of focus. I'm inclined to see how first grade goes and we're going to put her into a taekwondo aftercare program most likely to see if that helps with focus and concentration and energy management some more. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890855 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:30:10 +0000 Madison43 2890855@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My almost 6 yo has some task stamina - usually art - but even then she wants someone to sit with her so she can talk to them, or she runs back and forth to where I am so she can show me what she’s doing or just talk, but everything else sounds just like my kid! So much endless talking and movement. It blows my mind but I’m not worried about there being anything wrong. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890854 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:26:47 +0000 KT326 2890854@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Except for the task stamina (he does like to sit and read or play on his own), this sounds like my son. In preschool I was worried about it, but after going through Kinder and 1st, talking to his teachers, aftercare and two different pediatricians, no one seems worried. Some kids just need to move a lot. </p> <p>His first grade teacher did have some success doing some mindful breathing with him first thing in the morning. It really helped him focus on the task they were working on. </p> <p>And the awareness, this one drives me insane. I feel like I am constantly telling him to watch where he is going, don't run into anyone. All.the.time.</p> <p>As for the talking... that was me at that age. My mom loves to tell me how I never stopped talking until I hit the pre-teen years hahaha. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890852 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:25:36 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890852@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@crazydoglady: In what way? I assume because she's doing well in school that she doesn't bounce off the walls there and she definitely can sit through a movie in a movie theater for example, but she's always moving around in some way, even when concentrating on something. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890850 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:23:40 +0000 crazydoglady 2890850@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs. Carrot: Hmmmm...can she turn the hyperactivity "off?" </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890849 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:23:13 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890849@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@DillonLion: I usually think it is too and then I get into comparisons with her peers who get up and read chapter books on their own for a half hour on their own and my (former teacher) mom telling me how I need to train her to focus and I start to wonder. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890847 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:21:18 +0000 DillonLion 2890847@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>This sounds exactly like my 6 year old daughter. I've never really had concerns about ADHD. I figured this is just her being a kid? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/at-what-point-do-you-worry-about-adhd#post-2890843 Fri, 12 Jul 2019 13:01:59 +0000 Mrs. Carrot 2890843@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My daughter just turned 6, and as she's getting older, my concern about potential AD(H)D keeps growing. She has exhibited a lot of high energy/low attention behaviors for years, and I've mostly just written it off as age, as have her teachers, but as she gets older, I wonder. We have her 6 year well visit in 2 weeks so I'm planning to talk to her doc about it anyway, but wanted to get some thoughts from the group as well. Things that I'm observing:</p> <p>-Very limited task stamina. She won't do any activity for more than a few minutes max, especially if it's on her own. A few minutes into anything, she'll start asking for company, help, shift attention to something else, etc. IE, she loves to read but I can't get her to read through an entire early reader (10-15 pages, max) in one sitting, </p> <p>-Very physically active. Kid moves nonstop. She can't get through a meal without a cartoon keeping her attention, for example. She's always moving her body in different ways while sitting for a meal or to watch a movie. She's always been like this, including being hard to settle down for bed. She's fine once asleep, but overall it just seems like she never needs rest. </p> <p>-Nonstop talking. Really nonstop. We can't get through a teeth brushing session without multiple interruptions. If she's not talking, she's singing. Except when she's asleep, the kid is constantly vocalizing something. </p> <p>-Zero concept of what's around her and seemingly little awareness of the outside world. She'll easily walk into people, even if they're directly in front of her. She interrupts constantly, and not in a way to try and be heard but almost as though she isn't even aware that others are talking. </p> <p>All that said, she's a fantastic student and was scored above grade level on reading and math at the end of kinder this year, and has no behavioral problems. Her teachers said she was great in class, her aftercare program said she's well behaved, etc. She's extremely social so I sometimes wonder if some of this is because she's an only child and it's connection related. But the when I watch her with friends, I see her be very "my way or I'd rather do it on my own" so maybe looking to be social isn't it. I have lots of rambly thoughts, but wondering what others might think and if these are indeed red flags or just a kid being a kid. </p>