ADHD??

[User020312]

Ok so my son is 4yo, and I'm not sure whether to take him to the GP about ADHD or not, as I don't want to look silly or look like I'm trying to make an excuse.

He is constantly on the go. And even when hes sat down, he has to he moving. Either his arms, his head, or his legs. He can't concentrate/loses interest on things super quick. Even when it's fun things like arts and crafts.

He can't socialise properly with other children. He hits them and doesn't share etc.

He often cannot follow even simple instructions (such as getting dressed/tidying up) - He seems to forget what he was supposed to be doing.

He is like this for me, for family members etc. But at nursery the teachers say he's a star. However, they don't do "real" work. It's more like a stay and play thing. I am going to bring it up when I drop him off after the holiday, though.

Now, I don't want to go to the GP if it's basically me not doing enough (even though I feel I am). My daughter is 7 and have never had this problem with her (same parenting techniques), and there is only so much we can do to "punish" his "naughty" behaviour.

I just really need some advice on someone who maybe clued up on this topic a little more than I am. Thank you x

Things differ from area to area, so I'll just comment on what it's like here (South Wales) as it's possibly the same.

Referral HAS to come via school, can't come via GP. School has to have valid concerns and involved other parties i.e. challenging behaviour team.

I realise he is 4 so that won't be the case yet anyway. But additionally to that, minimum age for referral and diagnosis here is 6.

I hand four children, two with ASD and one of those with ADHD too. So you totally have my sympathies and the system is a nightmare.

Your child should still be under the HV at 4 and they are probably the best port of call to get things moving, but if it is ADHD it's likely to be a long road unfortunately.

My son has adhd . It's hard to get a diagnosis before 6 years old . They like to see how they cope in mainstream school first before they access their needs

Have you looked at Sensory Processing Disorder? Both my kids were preemie and had immature nervous systems. My oldest had integration therapy and it really helped. My youngest is now doing the same. They are all inter-related. ADHD and other learning disabilities are a set of systems but I truly believe and have seen just how much can be done to help - just not on NHS sadly

Sorry should read a set of symptoms

If you are concerned discuss it with your gp. Ask about a specialist referral and even if it isn't available there will be an early note of your concern.