When is it typical childhood behavior, and when is it something to be concerned about? Many parents ask this question when they see their child struggling with focus, impulsivity, or high energy. While it’s natural for kids to be active and occasionally distracted, ADHD becomes a concern only when these behaviors clearly interfere with a child’s functioning at home, in school, and socially.
What Makes ADHD A “Disorder”?
A child may be wiggly or inattentive, but for ADHD to be diagnosed, three key factors must be present:
- Persistent – The behavior lasts at least six months.
- Pervasive – The issues appear in multiple settings (home, school, etc.).
- Impairing – The behavior significantly disrupts learning, relationships, or home life.
Sometimes, kids appear far more hyperactive at home than at school. In cases of genuine ADHD, while it is expected that there would be signs of ADHD at school, this doesn’t necessarily rule out ADHD; in fact, many children "hold it together" at school and then release their energy at home. That’s why a comprehensive evaluation is so important.
A Thorough ADHD Evaluation With Dr. John Carosso
Dr. John Carosso, a licensed Child Clinical Psychologist, has decades of experience in pediatric behavioral health. Dr. Carosso performs a detailed, evidence-based evaluation that includes:
- Clinical Interview with parent and child
- Input from teachers and caregivers to observe behavior across settings
- Neuropsychological testing for attention, memory, and executive functioning
- Review of genetic and family history of ADHD and related conditions
This holistic approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and informs a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Treating ADHD: Four Core Strategies
An ADHD diagnosis isn’t the end of the story - it’s the beginning of a plan. Effective treatment combines medical, behavioral, and educational strategies.
1. Structure and Routine - Children with ADHD thrive with predictability. Clear daily routines, visual schedules, and consistent expectations help reduce frustration and increase focus. Simple changes—like labeled bins, posted checklists, and fixed homework times—can make a world of difference.
2. Medication - Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) or amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse) are often prescribed to reduce ADHD symptoms. When properly monitored, these medications are safe and effective, helping kids focus, stay calm, and better manage their behavior.
3. High-Level Oversight and Monitoring - Children with ADHD often require close adult supervision and frequent prompting. This is known as proximity control. It may involve:
- Sitting near your child during homework
- Providing gentle, step-by-step guidance
- Offering frequent verbal cues and encouragement
These supports help children initiate, persist, and complete tasks, which they often struggle to do independently. Over time, your child will learn to rely more on independent tools such as:
- Visual schedules and checklists
- Timers and alarms
- Color-coded folders and planners
Direct oversight can gradually fade as their self-regulation improves, promoting independence and confidence.
4. 504 Service Agreement at School - A 504 Plan is a formal agreement that allows children with ADHD to receive classroom accommodations such as:
- Preferential seating
- Extended time for tests
- Movement breaks
- Reduced homework load
These supports level the playing field without altering curriculum standards, helping your child succeed academically.
Final Thoughts
ADHD is not just a phase or personality trait—it’s a real condition that can profoundly affect a child’s development if not addressed. But with an accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan, children with ADHD can succeed and thrive in all areas of life.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re concerned that your child may be showing signs of ADHD, schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. John Carosso - he'll help you determine whether ADHD is truly present and guide you toward the right treatment plan.
Click here to schedule an evaluation. We are proudly serving families throughout Pennsylvania via in-person and telehealth evaluations.
