There is a tendency for people to assume that a child with poor attention span and an inability to focus has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It’s easy to see why people may automatically jump to this conclusion.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that are excessive and pervasive, impairing in multiple contexts, and developmentally inappropriate.
While an inability to pay attention could possibly be a sign of ADHD, it’s not always the case. The child could just be troubled by something that’s happened to them, or they are concerned about something and haven’t voiced those concerns to anyone yet. Jumping to an ADHD conclusion, even if well-meaning, can easily end up sidelining the child’s real problems or concerns that need to be addressed.
It’s a truism that otherwise normal behaviours can sometimes be misidentified for being a learning disability.
A child with poor attention span and focus, or someone who regularly disrupts class is sometimes used as an indicator of a possible learning disability. A child with issues socialising with their peers can also indicate this. These can all be indicators but does not necessarily mean anything. It’s very possible that disruptive children with poor attention spans are just children who are misbehaving.
What if they really have ADHD or other learning disabilities?
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of children and is one of the most common. Children affected by ADHD have difficulties focussing, paying attention in class, and may also be hyperactive. This makes it difficult for them to sit still for prolonged periods as they are too physically and mentally distracted. Children who go undiagnosed often grow into adulthood with ADHD, where it may affect them professionally. ADHD is effectively treatable with behavioural therapy and appropriate medication.
College of Allied Educators offers our Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Special Education to train educators and parents in the identification, diagnosis and treatment of children with special needs, and the basic principles and practices of effective teaching and learning. The programmes are highly practice-oriented to ensure that what you learn in class can be applied to children with special needs under your charge, whether this is in a school setting or in a less formal home setting.
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