Characteristics of Attention Deficit Disorder in Children

Many people wonder about the characteristics of attention deficit disorder (also known as ADD) in children. Unlike its cousin, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), children with attention deficit disorder do not exhibit signs of hyperactivity. Although each child is different, children with ADD typically have some characteristics in common.

Careless Mistakes

• Children with attention deficit disorder have a difficult time focusing on even basic tasks and often make careless mistakes.

Dawdling

• Attention deficit disorder can cause a child to appear to dawdle, such as taking fifteen minutes to slide on a pair of boots.

Daydreaming

• Daydreaming is a common characteristic of children with attention deficit disorder. The children have trouble paying attention and appear to become "lost" in their own world.

Poor Concentration

• A short attention span is a common characteristic of attention deficit disorder. The child is unable to concentrate on a task for more than a brief period of time.

Poor Memory

• Attention deficit disorder makes it difficult for a child to remember a list of instructions. The child might need to be reminded multiple times to complete basic, and even routine, tasks.