For many young kids, it’s normal to have trouble paying attention, be very energetic, and sometimes be sloppy and unfocused when doing ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓÆµwork.

But if you think that your child has more trouble focusing than other kids his age — and that it’s getting in the way of his home and ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓÆµ life — it might be time to turn to the experts for answers.

You may have heard of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a condition that causes people to have trouble paying attention and have more trouble with controlling their behavior and emotions. (There’s also ADD: Some have the condition without the hyperactivity.)

Here is a checklist of some common ADHD symptoms:

  • Doesn’t pay attention to details or makes careless mistakes on homework
  • Has trouble staying focused, even when playing
  • Doesn’t follow through when you give him instructions
  • Has trouble finishing chores or homework
  • Has a hard time getting organized
  • Is fidgety or squirms when sitting
  • Blurts out answers before the question is even finished
  • Runs around even when it isn’t appropriate
  • Talks too much
  • Has a hard time waiting his turn
  • Interrupts other people’s games or conversations
  • Tends to lose things a lot

 If you see a lot of these symptoms in your child, talk with his teacher to find out if she also notices them at ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓÆµ. (Remember: Even if your child has these symptoms, it doesn’t mean he has ADHD.) Your teacher can help, but only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis. If you think your child has ADHD, talk with your pediatrician.

To learn more about ADHD, check out and CHADD ().