I am not sure how old a child has to be to be diagnosed with ADHD, but I have a 4 yr old that has all of the symtoms. (I also have a 9 yr old and a 5 yr old). My 4 year old talks non stop at the top of his lungs, he can never sit still, I don’t know how many times he gets up from the table when we are trying to eat. He doen’t mind and doesn’t follow instructions very well. He went to pre-school last year and his teacher had all of the same problems with him there as well.
My other 2 children were never this bad, so I don’t really know if it is just typical 4 year old behavior and I was just lucky with my other 2, or should I be concerned that there is something more going on with him?
Also if you have any suggestions that may help for the following problems that I listed above, I would greatly appreciate it!
I’d start on an intensive behavior management plan IMMEDIATELY! We had two boys both of whom met the description you give. We had to get very serious about learning positive reinforcement, contracting, and all sorts of strong behavior management techniques. We managed to raise both of them without resorting to medication, although we also used alternative schools and homeschooling, which really helps. So in answer to your question, in a way, yes it’s normal or at least not tremendously unusual, but the time is NOW to jump on it and teach him to control his own behavior. The longer you wait, the harder it is to get them back under control. You will have to learn to be a Superparent, but it can be done, and the sooner you start, the better off both of you will be.