Attention deficit disorder, also known as ADD, is a syndrome caused by a structural defect in the brain. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are symptoms children display when they have ADD.

Inattention

As most parents know, children don't have very long attention spans - that's normal. But a child with ADD will display a shorter attention span than kids of the same age. Most you children will grow restless and inattentive if a story being read goes longer than half an hour. A child with ADD will become inattentive after only 5-10 minutes.

Other signs of inattention would include being easily distracted, moving rapidly from one activity to another without completing any of them, failing to listen to or follow directions in class and at home, making more careless mistakes than one would expect from a child of that age, and consistently forgetting necessary items or supplies.

Hyperactivity For children that are extremely active and grow restless immediately, they have what is called hyperactivity. Signs of hyperactivity may include being restless or fidgety, constantly moving hands and feet even when sitting down, having trouble staying in an assigned seat, getting up and moving around inappropriately, being constantly on the go, etc.

Impulsivity

Impulsivity may manifest itself in many ways. The afflicted child may have trouble waiting his or her turn in games, or may shout out the answers in class before called upon. The child may also have trouble reading social cues and may try to force him or herself into the middle of conversations or games where he or she is not wanted.

Although these are the symptoms for ADD, it is important to remember that the child that is showing these signs should be worse than other children his or her age. Currently, there is no permanent cure for attention deficit disorder; but several treatments have been proven effective. If you suspect your child suffers from ADD, ask the school for a referral to a professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist that specializes in diagnosing and treating childhood disorders.