Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is also called Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADD and ADHD symptoms are the same. The term ADHD is commonly used because the name describes all the symptoms of ADD. The ADD symptoms in children are not the same for every kid. Inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity are the three major symptoms of ADD in children. Children show symptoms from any one of the category mentioned above. However, some children show symptoms which come under both the categories. Children suffering from ADD take up a lot of physical activity. ADD is seen in children of six to eleven years of age. Symptoms of ADD in Children As mentioned previously, the three cardinal symptoms of ADD are inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. ADD is usually diagnosed in early childhood, usually before seven years of age. Given below are some of the symptoms observed in children. Inattention Following are the ADD symptoms in children who fall in the category of the inattentive type. This type is also known as the classic attention deficit disorder.

1. Lack of attention to detail, especially while completing homework
2. Easily distracted/unable to sustain attention while performing tasks or playing games
3. Inability to follow through set of instructions
4. Lose focus while listening to someone; cannot respond appropriately when spoken to directly
5. Tendency to avoid tasks that call for sustained mental attention, typically schoolwork, homework, etc.
6. Dislike for organized activities, such as games
7. Tend to lose things more easily and more frequently than usual
8. Forgetful and easily distracted

Hyperactivity Following are the ADD symptoms in children who fall in the category of the hyperactive type. This type is commonly known as classic attention deficit and hyperactive disorder, or Classic ADHD.

1. Tendency to constantly fidget, either with hands, legs, fingers or articles like pen, pencil, eraser, etc.
2. Cannot sit in one place for too long; is constantly "on the run"
3. Always leaves seat, even in the middle of a class
4. Talks excessively and incessantly

Impulsiveness Some of the most common traits of this symptom of ADD are explained here.

1. Has difficulty in awaiting his/her turn at something
2. Tendency to interrupt classmates
3. Communication often marked by blurting out sentences without letting other complete
4. Blurts out answers before teacher completes asking the question

ADD symptoms in children are different for girls and boys. Girls often daydream and find it difficult to pay attention in classroom. Boys suffering from ADD, on the other hand, are more likely to be hyperactive. Also, boys are less conformable with teachers and elders. However, not all the children who are hyperactive and inattentive in schools and homes suffer from ADD. So how do you know the difference? ADD? Are You Sure? Most kids around the age of 3 to 5 years are full of energy, are highly active, and love to play, talk and run around, to the point that it annoys the teachers and parents out of their wits! however, does that mean the particular child has ADD? Well, not quite. The key to differentiate between an unusually energetic and active child, and a child with ADD, is to test whether the so-called 'symptoms' are severe enough to stunt or obstruct normal growth and development in the child. Do the so-called symptoms affect your child's performance in different kinds of settings as well? Does your child show the same symptoms in school, as well as at home, around family and relatives, and socially? Most of the tests used to confirm ADD in children aim at finding answer to above questions. The tests are not invasive. They include questionnaires, group sessions, and one-on-one sessions, with the parents, teachers, the concerned child and professional doctors. The tests also try to ensure that no other factor in the upbringing of the child or in the home environment is making the child restless and unable to focus. Finally... If your child is diagnosed with ADHD or ADD, do not lose hope or be disheartened. With professional help and proper guidance and counseling, ADD can be gotten rid off. Almost 5% of school children in the US suffer from ADD; however, they grow up to be fine and responsible students of the society. So if you see the symptoms of ADD in your child, and if the symptoms persist for more than six months, do not hesitate to seek help from a doctor. Counseling as well as medication has been devised to help cure ADD; your child does not have to live with it forever. Nip ADD in the bud, and your child will grow up and be a successful and positive contributor to the society.