ADHD

Evidence 

https://www.firstfiveyears.org.au/child-development/premature-birth-and-the-link-to-adhd 

Franz AP, Bolat GU, Bolat H 

Studies indicate children born very preterm are showing rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), three times higher than the general population, however monitoring can assist health care professionals with early intervention. 

While the rate varies across age and region, roughly one in 20 children (5%) in Australia have symptoms of ADHD, and in children born very preterm (prior to 32 weeks) in Victoria the rate is reported to be 11%. 

Education 

What is ADHD? 

ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and an inability to concentrate or direct attention. It’s common in childhood and can impact school performance, relationships, and day-to-day functioning. Between 4% and 12% of children have ADHD and its two times as likely to be recognised in boys than girls. 

What happens during pregnancy and childbirth can increase your child’s risk for attention deficit disorder (ADHD). Birthing parents who drink alcohol or smoke are more likely to have a child with ADHD. Babies born prematurely or sick have an increased risk of developing the condition. 

If you have concerns about your preschooler’s behaviour, you might be wondering if your child is showing signs of attention deficit disorder (ADHD). This might be a particular concern for you if you have ADHD yourself, your other children do, or if the condition runs in your family. 

Your concerns are valid, but it's important to remember that ADHD cannot be formally diagnosed until your child is 4 years old. 

There are certain characteristics in pre-schoolers that may suggest  ADHD.  

• You may notice that your pre-schooler has trouble concentrating and focusing. 

• You may notice that your pre-schooler can’t stop moving and is hyperactive. 

• You may notice that your pre-schooler is more impulsive than other children their age 

How is ADHD diagnosed? 

To be diagnosed with ADHD, your child will be evaluated by their paediatrician or a child psychiatrist There are certain criteria your child must meet to be diagnosed: 

• If your child is between the ages of 4 and 17, they must exhibit at least 6 signs of ADHD as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Signs include specific symptoms of impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. 

• These symptoms must be present in at least two settings, which may include school, home, and during social activities. 

• Symptoms must have lasted more than 6 months. 

• Symptoms must cause significant disruptions to your child’s life. 

Empowerment 

Although your pre-schooler can’t be diagnosed with ADHD until they are 4 years old, you should still bring up any concerns that you have about your child’s symptoms with your paediatrician so that you can both stay on top of what is going on and continue to monitor for ADHD signs as your child gets older. 

For more information about ADHD in Primary School aged children (5 years upwards) visit our document here - https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/gk4e2o 

Useful Links 

The Royal Children’s Hospital -Melbourne 

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder_ADHD/ 

Raising Children 

https://raisingchildren.net.au/school-age/development/adhd/adhd 

ADHD Australia 

https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au 

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