ADHD
Compassionate ADHD Care for Children & Teens
At Sherry Nussbaum, M.D., P.A. Pediatrics, we provide thoughtful, evidence-based ADHD diagnosis and treatment for children and adolescents. Our goal is to help kids succeed at home, at school, and in their friendships—while supporting parents every step of the way.
Schedule an ADHD Evaluation by calling 817-861-2288 today.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity level. Children and teens with ADHD may have trouble focusing, sitting still, or following through on tasks—even when they’re trying their best.
ADHD is common, manageable, and not a reflection of your child’s intelligence or your parenting. With the right diagnosis, support, and treatment, most children with ADHD can thrive.
Signs of ADHD by Age
Common Signs of ADHD in Children and Teens
Every child has busy or distracted moments. ADHD is more than that—it’s a pattern that shows up across settings (home, school, activities) and affects daily life.
Younger children may:
Have trouble sitting still during meals, story time, or class
Run or climb at inappropriate times
Have a hard time waiting their turn
Lose or forget things like jackets, papers, or toys
Struggle to follow multi-step directions
Older children & teens may:
Have difficulty focusing on schoolwork or completing assignments
Procrastinate and feel overwhelmed by tasks
Make careless mistakes despite knowing the material
Feel “restless” or “on edge,” even if they’re not physically hyperactive
Have trouble with organization, planning, or time management
Not every child with these behaviors has ADHD, and not every child with ADHD looks the same. A careful evaluation is the best way to understand what’s going on.
Our Approach to ADHD Diagnosis
We use a thorough, step-by-step process to understand your child’s unique strengths and challenges. An ADHD evaluation may include:
Detailed medical & developmental history
We talk with you about your child’s health, early development, school history, and family background.Parent & teacher questionnaires
Standardized rating scales help us see how your child’s behaviors look at home and at school.Office visit with your child
We observe your child’s behavior, review symptoms together, and address any concerns you or your child may have.Screening for other conditions
We look for issues that can mimic or occur alongside ADHD, such as anxiety, learning differences, sleep problems, or mood concerns.
Goal of the evaluation:
To determine whether ADHD is present and, if so, to create a clear, individualized treatment plan.
ADHD Treatment Options
Treatment is not “one size fits all.” We tailor each plan based on your child’s age, symptoms, and family preferences.
1. Education & Family Support
We take time to explain ADHD in clear, practical language. We discuss what’s happening in your child’s brain, what to expect over time, and how you can support them at home.
2. Behavioral Strategies & Parenting Tools
We review behavior strategies that can help with routines, homework, and emotional regulation. When helpful, we may refer families to therapists or counselors for additional support.
3. School & Classroom Support
We work with families to:
Review teacher feedback and school reports
Help you request appropriate accommodations
Provide documentation for 504 plans or IEPs when indicated
4. Medication Management (When Appropriate)
For some children and teens, medication can be a safe and effective part of ADHD treatment. If medication is appropriate, we:
Discuss risks, benefits, and alternatives
Start with the lowest effective dose
Monitor side effects and growth
Adjust the plan as your child grows and their needs change
What to Expect Over Time
Follow-Up Visits & Ongoing Care
ADHD care doesn’t end with the first prescription or school letter. We provide regular follow-up visits to:
Monitor how your child is doing at home and school
Adjust medication (if used) as needed
Track growth, appetite, and sleep
Review teacher feedback and report cards
Update documentation for schools and specialists
Most children are seen more frequently at the beginning of treatment, then every 3 months once symptoms are stable.
Frequently Asked Questions
ADHD FAQ: Questions We Hear from Parents
Q1: Is ADHD just “bad behavior” or “laziness”?
No. ADHD is a real neurodevelopmental condition. Children with ADHD are often trying very hard, but their brains process attention and impulse control differently. With the right support, they can be successful and confident.
Q2: Will medication change my child’s personality?
The goal of medication is not to “turn down” your child’s personality, but to reduce symptoms that get in the way of learning, friendships, and daily life. We monitor closely and work with you to find the lowest effective dose—or a non-medication option if that’s right for your child.
Q3: Can my child “outgrow” ADHD?
Many children with ADHD continue to have some symptoms into adolescence and adulthood, but with maturity and the right tools, they often learn strategies to manage those symptoms very well.
Q4: What if I’m not ready for medication?
That’s okay. We can start with education, behavioral strategies, and school support, and revisit medication later if needed. Treatment decisions are always made together with your family.
(Add or remove FAQs based on what you hear most in your office.)
When to Schedule an ADHD Evaluation
Consider scheduling an evaluation if:
Teachers have raised repeated concerns about focus, behavior, or school performance
Your child is falling behind academically despite good effort and support
Homework turns into daily battles or takes hours to complete
Your child is often in trouble for impulsive behavior or difficulty staying seated
Your child is frustrated, anxious, or discouraged about school or friendships
If you’re unsure whether it’s “just a phase” or something more, we’re happy to talk it through with you.
How to Get Started
We’re here to help your child—and your family—feel supported and understood.
Call us:
📞 817-861-2288