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Understanding ADHD
What is ADHD?
ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental difference in how a child manages attention, activity and impulses. It is not caused by poor parenting, too much screen time or sugar — and children with ADHD are often bright, creative and energetic.
ADHD can look like being inattentive (dreamy, forgetful, easily distracted), hyperactive-impulsive (always moving, blurting out), or a mix of both. The inattentive type is quieter and often missed — especially in girls. With the right support, children with ADHD learn to focus, self-regulate and shine.
Signs by age
Signs of ADHD, by age
Lots of young children are active and distractible — that’s normal. ADHD is when these patterns are stronger than other children the same age, happen in more than one setting, and get in the way of learning, friendships or family life. These are common signs, not a diagnosis.
👶Preschool (2–4)
- Constant motion; rarely sits still
- Intense, frequent tantrums
- Difficulty with quiet or pretend play
- Little sense of danger
- Hard to engage even briefly
🧒Early school (4–6)
- Can’t stay seated; fidgets constantly
- Blurts out, interrupts, can’t wait turns
- Easily distracted; forgetful
- Doesn’t finish tasks or follow instructions
- Big emotional ups and downs
🧑School age (6–12)
- Trouble focusing on schoolwork
- Careless mistakes; loses things
- Fidgety, restless, talks a lot
- Acts before thinking
- Struggles to stay organised
🎒Teens
- Disorganisation and procrastination
- Difficulty with time, planning and deadlines
- Restlessness and impulsivity
- Emotional regulation and low self-esteem
- Risk-taking or avoidance
ADHD presents differently in every child, and the quiet, inattentive type is easily overlooked. Only a qualified professional — a paediatrician, psychiatrist or psychologist — can diagnose ADHD. If these patterns sound familiar, it’s worth seeking an assessment.
Getting started
When and how to seek an assessment
Start with your GP, who can refer you to a paediatrician or psychologist. ADHD is usually assessed from around age 4–6, once school demands make attention and self-regulation more visible. An assessment looks at your child across home and school, so teacher input often helps.
Daar provides therapy and functional support that complements medical care. Medication, where appropriate, is prescribed by a paediatrician or psychiatrist — and works best alongside practical strategies for focus, routines and emotional regulation.
How we help
How Daar supports children with ADHD
Support for ADHD is most effective when it’s practical and consistent across home and school. Daar’s therapists build skills and coach families and educators.
Funding
ADHD and the NDIS
ADHD isn’t automatically NDIS-funded — access depends on the level of functional impact on daily life, and support is often funded where ADHD occurs alongside other conditions or causes significant challenges. If you’re unsure whether your child is eligible or how to use a plan, our team can help you understand your options.
Not sure where to start?
Answer a few quick questions and we’ll match your child with the right support — and our team will be in touch.
Find the right support →FAQ
Frequently asked questions
At what age can ADHD be diagnosed?
ADHD is usually diagnosed from around age 4 to 6, once attention and self-regulation demands increase at school. Concerns can be raised earlier and support can begin before a formal diagnosis.
Is ADHD covered by the NDIS?
Not automatically. NDIS support depends on the functional impact of ADHD on your child’s daily life, and is often funded where ADHD occurs alongside other conditions. Our team can help you check your options.
Does my child need medication?
Not necessarily. Medication is one option, prescribed by a paediatrician or psychiatrist, and it works best alongside practical strategies. Many children benefit from therapy and support without or before medication.
What therapy helps children with ADHD?
Practical, consistent support — commonly psychology, occupational therapy and positive behaviour support — that builds focus, self-regulation and organisation across home and school.
Is ADHD caused by screens or sugar?
No. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental difference with a strong genetic component. Screens and diet can affect behaviour, but they don’t cause ADHD.
Last reviewed 16 July 2026Reviewed by Daar’s clinical teamGeneral information — not a diagnosis or medical advice
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