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Is Hyperactivity a Common Symptom in Children with ADHD? 

Yes, ADHD hyperactivity is a common symptom in children with ADHD. Many children with this condition exhibit high energy levels, restlessness, and an inability to sit still, making hyperactivity one of the most noticeable child symptoms of ADHD. This behaviour can affect their ability to stay focused during class, follow instructions, and engage in quiet activities. 

Hyperactivity in children with ADHD typically manifests as constant movement, such as fidgeting, running, or excessive talking. These common behaviours often make it difficult for children to stay seated during lessons or calm down during quiet activities, leading to challenges in both school and social settings. 

Common Symptoms of ADHD Hyperactivity and Child Symptoms 

Fidgeting or squirming: Children with ADHD often have difficulty sitting still, constantly moving in their seat or playing with objects to expend energy. 

Excessive talking: A child may speak out of turn or interrupt others, displaying an impulsive need to express their thoughts without waiting for their turn. 

Constant movement: Hyperactive children often seem to be on the go, running, jumping, or engaging in other high-energy behaviours even when it’s inappropriate or disruptive. 

 
Recognising ADHD hyperactivity as a key symptom of the condition helps parents and educators understand the challenges children face and implement strategies to help them manage energy levels and stay engaged in appropriate activities. 

 
Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.   

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Clinical interviews and History Taking.  

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.