Signs of hyperactive behaviour

• Fidgeting and restlessness, almost constantly
• Not sitting in the same seat for any length of time
• Running or climbing inappropriately
• Talking too much
• Always playing too loudly
• Always "on the go"
• Blurting out answers to questions in school
• Cutting in line or unable to wait for a turn in activities
• Interrupting others

Signs of a lack of attention

• Difficulty following instructions
• Not seeming to listen to parents or teachers
• Not being able to focus attention on activities
• Frequently losing things needed for school or at home
• Not being able to pay attention to details
• Appearing disorganized
• Being unable to plan ahead effectively
• Being forgetful
• Appearing very distractible
  

Most children with ADHD show signs of both hyperactivity and attention problems. Some children, though, may have only signs of inattention. They may have trouble concentrating and paying attention, but they may not show signs of hyperactivity. This kind of problem used to be called attention-deficit disorder (ADD). ADD is now thought of as a form of ADHD.