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Is it too early to consider a diagnosis of ADHD in a 2-3 year old?

Nikki - posted on 10/09/2011 ( 2 moms have responded )

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Hi everyone,

My name is Nikki and I live in Australia. I am also a Registered Nurse with 20 years experience. I've just joined this group as I have a nagging feeling in the back of my mind that my son (who is nearly 3 yrs) is showing signs of ADHD.

I have already taken him to a Clinical Psychologist who told me that his behaviour is "normal" for his age. After reading the article and link on Circle of Moms about ADHD I'm not so sure. He manages to fit all the criteria and the psychologist did say that his behaviour seems to be linked to anxiety.

I considered trying an elimination diet but he just doesn't eat enough as it is and trying to get him to eat even most things is a complete nightmare. I would like to avoid medication if I can but am thinking I may not have a choice or might even try it for a while and see if it makes a difference.

He is constantly on the go, when sitting on your lap he can't sit still, he won't sit down at the dinner table for more than 2 mins at a time. His attention span is almost non-existent.He runs around at 100 miles an hour, taking him shopping or anywhere for that matter is a chore. He's disruptive when I'm talking to other people or on the phone. I'm seriously going out of my mind and I'm trying to complete my Masters Degree and working full-time.

Am I crazy to think he may have ADHD? If any of you have any suggestions to help I'm more than willing to listen. Thanks for reading.

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2 Comments

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Janelle - posted on 12/02/2011

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My daughter is 28 months and I am going through the exact same thing. She never stops moving, I can't get her to sit still on my lap, etc. everything you mentioned. I am so worried about her and almost certain she has it but my doctor says the same thing too early to diagnose. I really don't have any advice just comforting to know someone understands what I am going through. I guess only time will tell. If you find out anything else let me know and I'll do the same. I am going crazy too and I am a stay at home mom lol I can't imagine doing all you are doing with work and school. Good luck I'll keep you in my prayers

Michelle - posted on 10/25/2011

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I think the age of 3 is way too soon to diagnose ADHD as most of the symptoms of ADHD are normal behaviors for toddlers and in my experience, especially boys. Its when they hit the "know better than that" age that things become apparent. Disorganization for instance is major factor in children with ADHD but you cant really tell this in a 3yr old. I think your son is being a normal busy 3yr old active boy :) However, I thought that of my son too when he was 3 but in 3rd grade it became apparent that his behavior was not the norm for children his age. So definitely keep an open mind about it but also definitely give him time.

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