Does My Child Have ADHD or Are They Just Restless?

Every child has days when they can’t sit still or struggle to pay attention. As a parent, you might wonder if this high energy is just a normal phase or a sign of something more. 

At Professional Pediatrics in Roseville, California, Benjamin Valdez, MD, and our team help families navigate these questions.

We know that distinguishing between normal childhood restlessness and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a major priority for parents. That is why we offer comprehensive ADHD evaluations to get accurate answers for your child.

Does classroom age affect ADHD diagnoses?

Sometimes, a child's restlessness is simply a matter of developmental maturity. In early childhood, a few months can make a massive difference in a child's ability to focus and control impulses. 

A 2024 study in European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that the youngest students in a classroom were about 38% more likely to receive an ADHD diagnosis. If your child has a late summer birthday, their struggles might just be because they are younger than their classmates. 

At our Roseville office, we look closely at your child's exact age. This helps us avoid mistaking normal immaturity for a medical condition.

How do we diagnose ADHD?

A true medical diagnosis of ADHD requires more than just high energy in one setting. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity must last for at least six months. 

These symptoms must also appear in two or more settings, such as at home and at school. They must cause documented problems in daily life. 

To gather objective data, we use standardized behavioral questionnaires. A study in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics confirmed that these parent and teacher rating scales are reliable. 

They help us capture a complete picture of your child's behavior. We combine these scales with our clinical expertise to see how your child functions.

What else can mimic ADHD symptoms?

Many physical and emotional conditions can make a child act distracted or physically restless. The American Academy of Pediatrics requires pediatricians to screen for other conditions before finalizing an ADHD diagnosis. 

For example, poor sleep from sleep apnea or enlarged tonsils can cause a child to act hyperactive during the day. Undiagnosed learning disabilities or anxiety can also lead to frustration and task avoidance that looks exactly like ADHD. 

Our team conducts thorough physical exams and developmental screenings to rule out these underlying causes first.

If you are concerned about your child's focus or energy levels, you do not have to guess. Our compassionate team is here to support your family with personalized, expert care. To get started, schedule a visit with Professional Pediatrics today.