To diagnose ADHD doctors will assess the child’s behavior in different settings – at home, with friends, at preschool, etc. For ADHD diagnosis the symptoms must be present in at least two settings. Symptoms must have been present for at least 6 months for ADHD to be diagnosed.

The doctor will screen for other conditions with similar symptoms that may be affecting your child. After carefully examining your preschooler’s mental, emotional, and physical condition the doctor may diagnose ADHD.

ADHD Diagnosis in Preschoolers FAQ

How do they diagnose ADHD in babies?

Babies cannot officially be diagnosed with ADHD although there are often signs and symptoms in babies indicating that they may be diagnosed with ADHD in the future. Medical guidelines exist for the diagnosis of ADHD in children 4 years and older. When a toddler younger than 4 years of age displays symptoms of ADHD the parents are usually referred to Parent Behavioral Management Training (PBMT).

ADHD diagnosis in infants?

There is no condition called “infant ADHD” nor are there clinical guidelines for diagnosing infant ADHD in toddlers and babies under 4 years of age. However, there are documented ADHD signs and symptoms in babies and toddlers that may need to be assessed by a doctor. Most experts agree that vulnerability to ADHD exists at birth. Fussy babies that persistently cry excessively and have problems sleeping and feeding may be diagnosed with ADHD when they are older. Not all babies displaying these symptoms go on to develop ADHD, but it may be worth mentioning to your pediatrician.

What causes infant ADHD?

Various prenatal factors increase the likelihood of a child having ADHD: if the mother takes drugs, smokes, or drinks alcohol during pregnancy; if the mother is exposed to toxic chemicals during pregnancy and if there is a family history of ADHD. Other causes of infant ADHD may include low birth weight, premature birth, or a problem with development of the central nervous system.

Signs my baby has ADHD?

Signs of ADHD in babies, toddlers, and preschoolers can be confused with the normal behavior of infants. For example, every toddler going through the “terrible twos” does not have ADHD. However, when the behavior of a baby, toddler, or preschooler surpasses that of other children their age and when the symptoms are disrupting the child’s life and the life of his family then it may be ADHD. It is possible to see early signs of ADHD in babies such as persistent excessive crying and you may spot signs of ADHD in your toddler such as extreme hyperactivity. Guidelines for clinical diagnosis of ADHD only exist for children 4 years and older although the signs of ADHD may be spotted earlier.