It is likely that your child has ADHD
ADHD is a neurological condition largely characterised by an inability to direct attention at will. Your child may struggle to maintain focus in areas where they are not interested but may be able to maintain focus in areas of interest. They may have issues with motivation particularly struggling to start tasks. They may show varying symptoms from 5 key areas Conduct, Learning, Psychosomatic, Hyperactivity/Impulsivity and Anxiety, more on each one which seems relevant to your child outlined below.
For ADHD Assessors in your area
More Resources
ADHD IrelandCAMHS
HowtoADHD on YouTube!
Your child displays Conduct related symptoms
Your child may have problems with following rules or being told what to do. Your child may have aggressive reactions and manipulative behaviour in order to get their own way. Your child will not intentionally aim to hurt your feelings they unfortunately just lack the ability to take the feelings of others into consideration.
Your child displays issues with Learning
Your child may fall behind the rest of the class even though sometimes they would appear much smarter. They may be late to read or to pick up maths such as addition, subtraction, fractions and percentages. Your child may struggle to do simple tasks such as reading the time, tieing their shoelaces, brushing their teeth. Please try to have patience.
Your child displays Psychosomatic symptoms
Your child may sometimes feel generally unwell, have headaches, stomach pains and other areas of discomfort/pain. Your child may also feel nauseous or vomit. They might have these symptoms without having any actual illness. These symptoms may arise before things they do not enjoy or are actively frightened of eg school, sports or extra curricular activities.
Your child displays Hyperactive or Impulsive behaviours
Your child may find it hard to sit still and exhibit squirmy/fidgety behaviour. Prefers to think/talk while moving and show signs of general restlessness. Your child may have a constant need for stimulation and may act without thinking about consequences. Although this may be frustrating to you this is often equally if not more frustrating for them and more often than not outside of their control.
Your child displays symptoms of Anxiety
Your child may feel fearful of new places or experiences. It is important to not make them feel pressured in these situations. May exhibit avoidance behaviours such as feigned illnesses to avoid school or other experiences. They may also have issues with emotional regulation.