Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often appears in early childhood, but diagnosing it accurately before school age is challenging. Many children display hyperactivity or inattentiveness at a young age, but only a small percentage experience persistent symptoms that meet clinical ADHD criteria. For families seeking mental health services in Fairfax, Virginia, early recognition and support are crucial for improving long-term outcomes.

A recent longitudinal study highlights how a two-stage screening approach improves the accuracy of ADHD identification in preschoolers. The study followed over 700 children from the age of 3.5 to 8 years. Researchers used parent-reported data and diagnostic interviews to classify children with persistent ADHD—those who met ADHD criteria at all three time points. While about 30% of children were flagged with ADHD at least once, only 4% had consistent symptoms across all ages. For those concerned about behavioral development, an ADHD assessment in Washington, D.C., can provide clarity and peace of mind.

The researchers compared a single screening at age 3.5 with a repeated screening at ages 3.5 and 5 using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). The results were clear: two-stage screening significantly reduced false positives without missing those with persistent ADHD. For example, at a threshold score of 6, both approaches identified all children with persistent ADHD, but the two-stage method flagged far fewer children unnecessarily. This is an encouraging development for clinicians offering ADHD treatment in Baltimore, Maryland, as it allows for more targeted care and early intervention.

This finding matters. Mislabeling young children can cause unnecessary worry for families and strain healthcare services. By repeating screening and raising threshold scores over time, clinicians can more effectively target support to children truly in need, especially before school demands increase. Access to mental wellness services in Virginia that include pediatric assessments and family-centered care can make a meaningful difference in a child’s development and success.

In conclusion, while early ADHD symptoms can be normal, repeated screening helps identify which children will continue to struggle. For clinicians, educators, and parents, a two-stage approach provides a more reliable path to early intervention and better outcomes for children with persistent ADHD.

If you’re seeking professional support for early ADHD screening, diagnosis, and treatment, contact Vigor Integrative Wellness today.