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For many years, the term ADD was used to describe certain children who experienced attention difficulties without particularly noticeable hyperactivity. Today, professionals primarily use the term ADHD: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
So, what is the real difference between ADD and ADHD? Why do we still hear so much about ADD? And most importantly, how can we better understand the children concerned?
Babaoo explains it all! ⬇️
What is ADD?
ADD stands for attention deficit disorder.
For many years, this term was used to describe children who mainly experienced:
- difficulty concentrating,
- frequent forgetfulness,
- organizational challenges,
- or difficulty maintaining attention over time.
Unlike some children with a more “visible” form of ADHD, children described as having ADD did not necessarily display significant hyperactive behavior.
For example, they may:
- often seem “lost in thought,”
- quickly forget instructions,
- lose their belongings,
- struggle to complete activities,
- easily lose focus during explanations.
Because they are often quieter, their difficulties can sometimes go unnoticed for several years, especially at school.
✏️ Note: only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose ADHD.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is now the official term used by professionals.
ADHD is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder. It can affect several Executive Functions, the cognitive abilities that help us:
- control attention,
- manage emotions,
- organize actions,
- retain information,
- and control impulses.
Why ADD is no longer an official diagnosis?
Today, the term ADD no longer appears in modern diagnostic classifications such as the DSM-5. Specialists now refer to different ADHD “presentations.” This change helps recognize that attention difficulties do not always involve visible hyperactivity. Every child has a unique profile.
However, the term ADD is still widely used in everyday language, particularly to describe predominantly inattentive profiles.
The 3 main types of ADHD
ADHD can appear in different ways depending on the child.
Inattentive type
This presentation is the closest to what was formerly called ADD.
Children may:
- struggle to maintain attention,
- quickly forget information,
- seem dreamy or distracted,
- lose track of tasks,
- have difficulty staying organized.
For example, a child may listen to an instruction… and then immediately forget what they were supposed to do just a few seconds later. 😵💫
Because these difficulties can be subtle, these children may sometimes be mistakenly perceived as “unmotivated” or “not paying attention.”
Hyperactive-impulsive type
In this presentation, the main challenges involve motor restlessness and impulsivity.
The child may:
- move constantly,
- frequently interrupt others,
- struggle to wait their turn,
- talk excessively,
- act before thinking.
This restlessness is not intentional; it often reflects difficulties with self-regulation and inhibitory control. Inhibitory control is an executive function that allows us to stop or inhibit an action, thought, or impulse.
Combined type
This is the most common presentation of ADHD.
The child experiences both:
- attention difficulties,
- impulsivity,
- and varying levels of hyperactivity.
Common symptoms in children
ADHD is not only about concentration.
Children may also experience challenges related to several executive functions, including:
- working memory,
- inhibitory control,
- cognitive flexibility,
- planning,
- and emotional regulation.
For example, a child may know exactly what they need to do but be unable to get started. Another may understand an instruction and then forget it moments later. Another may react very quickly emotionally without being able to step back and reflect.
These behaviors are not simply the result of a “lack of effort” or “lack of discipline.” They often reflect a different way of processing information and regulating behavior.
How can you support a child with ADHD?
Children with ADHD often benefit from:
- clear routines,
- a structured environment,
- short instructions,
- visual supports,
- regular breaks,
- positive encouragement,
- and appropriate playful activities.
Play can be a powerful tool for supporting executive functions such as attention, working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. With appropriate support, children can gradually learn to better understand how they function and develop their own strategies.
When should you seek professional advice?
All children can sometimes be distracted, impulsive, or highly energetic. However, when these difficulties become frequent and significantly impact learning, social relationships, self-esteem, or daily life, seeking advice from a qualified professional may be helpful.
An assessment always takes into account the child’s overall development, strengths, needs, and environment.
Babaoo summary
- The term ADD was previously used to describe predominantly inattentive profiles.
- Today, professionals primarily use the term ADHD.
- ADHD can affect different executive functions such as attention, working memory, and inhibitory control.
- Every child has a unique profile and specific needs.
- With understanding, appropriate support, and the right tools, children can gradually strengthen their attentional and executive abilities.
Understanding how the brain works is already a first step toward better supporting children in their learning journey and overall development.
Also read
- ADHD children: how to support them at school?
- What does an ADHD child need and how can they be helped at home?
- What is ADHD and how can we recognise it in children?
