Are There Specific DSM-5 Criteria for Preschool-Aged Children? 

The preschool ADHD criteria in the DSM-5 provide specific guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in young children, typically aged 4 to 5. Diagnosing ADHD in early childhood can be more challenging due to the developmental variability in young children, where behaviours like impulsivity and inattention are often seen. However, the DSM-5 standards ensure that the symptoms must go beyond what is typical for a child’s age and must be persistent and impactful. 

For preschool-aged children, the preschool ADHD criteria emphasise that behaviours such as fidgeting, difficulty staying seated, and excessive talking must significantly disrupt daily life activities, especially at home and in early childhood settings, such as daycare or preschool. These symptoms must be present for at least six months and cause clear impairment in functioning. 

While preschool-aged children may naturally exhibit some level of inattention or hyperactivity, the DSM-5 standards require that these behaviours be more severe than what is expected for the child’s developmental level. The criteria also stress the importance of ruling out other potential causes for the child’s behaviour, ensuring that the symptoms are not due to temporary developmental stages. 

How It Helps 

The preschool ADHD criteria in the DSM-5 help ensure that young children who may need early intervention are accurately diagnosed. By clearly defining the expectations for early childhood behaviour, these guidelines assist in identifying ADHD early, leading to timely and effective treatment strategies. 

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 DSM-5 Diagnostic Guidelines.  

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

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.