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Pediatric Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that makes it difficult to pay attention, keep still and think before acting. ADHD is the most common mental health problem of childhood, affecting 5% to 9% of children and 4% of adults. Although the symptoms of ADHD begin in childhood, ADHD can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Even though hyperactive behaviors tend to improve as a child becomes a teen, challenges with inattention, disorganization and poor impulse control often continue through the teen years and into adulthood.

It is normal for all children to have difficulties with paying attention, being hyper or acting without thinking sometimes. Most young children have trouble sitting still. Many kids don’t finish their schoolwork. Few children sit through meals without tapping, kicking or drumming. 

So how do you know what is normal and what is ADHD? Only a doctor can tell you for sure. For these problems to be diagnosed as ADHD, they must be a pattern of behaviors that occur at higher levels than other children the same age and interfere with daily functioning. ADHD behaviors do not occur in only one place, but happen every day in the classroom, on the playground and at home. The behaviors of children with ADHD can lead to serious difficulties in their relationships with parents, teachers, peers and siblings, as well as learning and academic problems.

Frequently Asked Questions about ADHD

Finding the Best ADHD Treatment for Your Child

Every child and teen is different, and you know your child best. As a parent, trust your thoughts and feelings when deciding on treatments. Discuss treatment options with your child’s doctor. Gather as much information as you need to make a decision that is right for you and your child.

Some things to consider when deciding on treatments:

  • Balancing possible benefits with side effects, cost and time
  • Your child's age, overall health and medical history
  • Extent of your child's symptoms
  • Your opinion or preference
  • Track and monitor your child’s progress. Your decisions may change over time as your child’s needs change.
  • It is impossible to predict how your child will respond because every child is unique. The only way to find out if a treatment will help your child for sure is by trying it. 

Every effort should be made to manage symptoms and direct your child to helpful paths. There are three treatment options to consider:

  • Behavioral treatment
  • Medication
  • Combined treatment (both behavioral treatment and medication)

Treatment Options

Children's Team

Children's Team

Providers

Ryan Uy

Ryan Uy

Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician
Medical Director, Fragile X Clinic
Melissa Dvorsky

Melissa Dvorsky

Director, ADHD & Learning Differences Program
Psychologist
Donna Marschall

Donna Marschall

Director, Whole Bear Care, Primary Care Behavioral Health Services
Psychologist
Departments

Departments

ADHD & Learning Differences Program

We offer youth and families a comprehensive range of clinical services, including evidence-based assessment and treatment services. Families, communities and schools can also access state-of-the-art investigational interventions being developed for youth and adolescents with ADHD and learning differences by participating in one of our ongoing research studies.

Neuropsychology Outpatient Evaluation

Neurological disorders and injuries that affect the brain, including developmental problems and injury from an accident or birth trauma, can influence the way a child thinks, learns, behaves and expresses emotions.

Neuropsychology

Children’s National Hospital has some of the world’s foremost experts in care for children with complex neurodevelopmental disorders affecting the brain and central nervous system.

Psychology and Behavioral Health

In the Division of Psychology and Behavioral Health, our child psychologists and other mental health professionals work exclusively with children and teens, emphasizing patient and family-focused care.

Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Children’s National offers assessment, diagnosis and care for children and teens with behavioral, emotional and developmental disorders.