Signs of ADHD in Infants

Children with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more overactive and inattentive than other children, and their behavior can be extremely disruptive. According to Attention Deficit Disorder Resources, between 3 and 5 percent of children have ADHD. Signs often can be seen in infancy, although diagnosis is difficult because many babies have some of these symptoms and do not develop ADHD.

Sleeping Patterns

Unusual sleep patterns in infants may be a sign of ADHD. These babies may be restless when they should be sleeping, take a long time to go to sleep and have interrupted sleep.

Feeding Patterns

Parents with children who have ADHD commonly remember that as babies, they were thirsty much of the time, while in contrast, they were difficult to feed.

Tantrums

An infant with ADHD may have frequent tantrums, with disturbing behavior such as banging his head, kicking, screaming and rocking.

Temperament

These babies can be impatient and more easily frustrated than others, and cry more often as well. They often require more attention than other babies.

Movement

Parents of infants with ADHD may find them squirmy, difficult to hold or cuddle. The baby may only be easy to hold if she is rocked.

References

• Consumer Reports Health: ADHD Infant and Toddler Years
• Dyslexia A 2 Z: ADHD Infant Checklist
• Attention Deficit Disorder Resources: What is ADHD?