ADHD Checklist for Children - 10 Common Signs

If you are a parent or carer of a child who may have ADHD, it can feel overwhelming to know what is normal behaviour and what may signal something more. Recognising the early signs of ADHD can help you support your child better and seek the right assessment if needed. This checklist highlights some of the most common symptoms of ADHD in children. Every child is unique, and not all children with ADHD show the same signs. But understanding these patterns can make it easier for families, teachers and healthcare professionals to provide the right support.

Checklist: ADHD Symptoms in Children

ADHD symptoms in children are often visible and can be noticed at home, in school, or in social situations. They may include a high degree of restlessness, impulsive behaviour such as interrupting others, and difficulties maintaining focus.

Here are 10 of the most common signs:

1. Difficulty focusing

Children with ADHD often find it hard to concentrate for longer periods, especially when tasks are not stimulating. This becomes clearer once school starts, when demands on focus increase.

2. Forgetfulness

Forgetting items like homework, school materials or appointments is common. A child may also forget chores or commitments even when reminded several times.

3. Trouble waiting their turn

Whether in class, in queues, or during conversations, children with ADHD often struggle to wait. Impatience and blurting things out are common.

4. Problems with organisation and planning

Multi-step tasks, school projects, or chores at home can be difficult to manage. Many children need support to break tasks down into smaller steps.

5. Struggles with starting and finishing activities

Getting started on assignments can be very hard, and finishing them may be equally challenging. Tasks often remain half-done.

6. Irritability and emotional outbursts

Children with ADHD may find it harder to regulate their emotions. They can become irritated or upset more quickly than their peers, sometimes over seemingly small triggers.

7. Restlessness and hyperactivity

Fidgeting, moving around constantly, or finding it impossible to stay seated (in class, at mealtimes, or during car journeys) are frequent signs.

8. Hyperfocus

Some children with ADHD show the opposite pattern in areas of interest. They may become completely absorbed in activities they enjoy, making it hard to shift to something else.

9. Difficulty following instructions

Even when instructions are clear and repeated, children may not follow through. This can create problems both at home and in school.

10. Easily distracted

Distractions from sounds, movement or conversations can quickly draw a child away from the task at hand. This affects learning and social interactions alike.

ADHD at Different Ages

ADHD symptoms evolve as a child grows, both because of development and increasing demands at school and in social life.

Early childhood (around 3–5 years, nursery age)

  • Restlessness during story time.

  • Struggling to settle at nap time.

  • Switching quickly between play activities and finding it hard to remain in group play.

  • Sensitivity to sensory input such as noise or bright lights.

Starting school (around age 5–6)

  • Difficulty sitting still in class.

  • Struggles with listening to teachers or following rules.

  • High activity levels interfering with early learning.

Primary school (ages 7–11)

  • Strong impulsivity – talking out of turn, acting before thinking.

  • Problems following repeated instructions in the classroom.

  • Difficulty managing homework and remembering school tasks.

Secondary school (ages 11–16)

  • Emotional dysregulation, such as strong reactions to small conflicts with peers.

  • Social challenges, including strained friendships or difficulties adapting to group norms.

  • Increased academic pressure making focus and organisation more difficult.

How to Respond as a Parent

Supporting a child with ADHD often means making both environmental changes and adjustments in parenting style.

Everyday adaptations

  • Establish clear routines for mornings, meals and bedtime.

  • Use visual schedules or checklists with pictures.

  • Break down tasks into small, manageable steps.

Parenting approach

  • Be positive and give praise when your child succeeds – this increases motivation.

  • Avoid punishment – it rarely works and can harm trust in the relationship.

  • Communicate clearly and consistently to create predictability.

Self-care for parents

Parenting a child with ADHD can be demanding. Taking care of yourself is essential:

  • Allow yourself breaks and moments of recovery.

  • Seek support networks – friends, family, or ADHD parent groups.

  • Be kind to yourself and recognise your own efforts.

When to Seek Help

If your child shows many of these signs and struggles in daily life, it may be time to speak with a professional.

In the UK, the first step is usually to talk to your GP or your child’s SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) at school. They can help initiate a referral for an ADHD assessment, either through the NHS (where waiting times may be long) or via private providers.

A formal ADHD assessment in the UK follows NICE guidelines and usually includes clinical interviews, developmental history, and validated questionnaires. Only a qualified professional can confirm a diagnosis.

Summary

ADHD in children can show up in many ways – from restlessness and impulsivity to forgetfulness and difficulty managing schoolwork. Symptoms also change with age, and every child is different.

Recognising these signs early can help families, teachers and healthcare professionals provide the right support. If you are concerned, speak to your GP or your child’s school for guidance on next steps.