Young learners often cannot pay attention for long, as they have a lot on their minds due to factors happening in their lives (e.g., they are trying to understand the world a little better). They are also full of energy and need to move around a lot. They can be impulsive, and they do not think through their actions, sometimes leading to hurt feelings, bruises, and scrapes.
As learners grow, we expect them to slowly outgrow these behaviours, but some take longer than others. For some, inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity last longer, causing problems at home and school.
What is typical?
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are common in learners under 6 years old. As they get older, the demands increase, and if they stay inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive, they may have trouble keeping up in school and activities.
There are other times when students may show these behaviours:
- They lack sleep
- They do not eat well
- They feel anxious or stressed
- They feel sad
- Those who have access usually spend too much time on phones or tablets.
Even learners who are slower to mature usually catch up, and these issues do not typically last into young adulthood. Understanding typical development helps educators differentiate between normal behaviour and behaviour that requires intervention.
When should I be concerned?
Educators should worry when these behaviours cause problems in the classroom or with other learners. Common signs to watch for include:
Inattention:
- Making frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork
- Getting distracted easily and distracting others
- Having a hard time listening
- Struggling to follow instructions
- Finding long tasks very hard
- Forgetting things often
- Losing items frequently
- Being disorganized
Hyperactivity: - Fidgeting
- Squirming/twisting and turning
- Trouble staying seated in one spot
- Running or climbing too much so that it becomes disruptive to others
- Having a hard time playing quietly
Impulsivity:
- Being impatient
- Struggling to wait for their turn
- Interrupting others
- Blurting things out
Some learners may have only a few of these issues, while others may have more. Learners with inattention often have hyperactivity and impulsivity issues too, making it hard for them to function in school and other activities. The combination and severity of these behaviours can significantly impact a learner’s learning and social interactions.
What can I do to help?
- Open communication: Regularly check in with the learner to understand their challenges and how you can best support them.
- Break down tasks: Divide larger assignments into smaller, more manageable steps.
- Establish clear routines and schedules: Provide predictable routines and visual schedules to help the learner stay organised and on task.
- Use checklists and organisers: Encourage the use of checklists, planners, or other organisational tools.
- Implement a reward system: Use a positive reinforcement system to motivate and encourage desired behaviours.
- Provide opportunities for movement: Incorporate movement breaks or allow for flexible seating arrangements.
- Collaborate with caregivers and support staff: Share observations with caregivers and consult with the school counsellor, psychologist, or other relevant professionals for additional support and strategies.
Where to find more information
For detailed information on mental health conditions, visit our guides for health professionals.