Behavioral Issues

What are behavioral issues?

Your child’s behaviors are likely to fluctuate as they learn and grow older. While kids often go through phases where they’re extra energetic or have trouble following instructions, long-term behavioral issues can cause disruptions at home, in the classroom, and your child’s social life outside of school. 

Some common behavioral issues involve:

• Hyperactivity
• Aggression
• Interruptions
• Easy distractions
• Excessive talking
• Trouble listening

While some of these behaviors may be circumstantial, you should schedule an appointment for your child if any of them cause frequent disruptions in school or if your child’s social life suffers because of them. 

What causes behavioral issues?

Behavioral issues can arise because of many factors, including major changes in your child’s life at home, a lack of sleep, or bullying in school. Behavioral issues are not always linked to an underlying disorder. 

One common behavioral disorder in children is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This condition causes hyperactive behaviors and inattentive behaviors. Your child may have a blend of both types, or they may lean toward one or the other type. 

The team at Centennial Pediatrics of Spokane provides a detailed behavioral assessment to diagnose ADHD or other disorders causing behavioral issues. They can then use their findings to develop an individualized care plan for your child to thrive at school, at home, and in other settings. 

How are behavioral issues treated?

Your child may or may not need clinical care for their behavioral issues. Some milder behavioral issues are age-specific and resolve themselves as your child grows and learns. The team at Centennial Pediatrics of Spokane evaluates your child for any underlying diagnoses they can treat, like ADHD. 

Medications are available for this condition in stimulant and non stimulant varieties. However, medications are not often prescribed without counseling or therapy. Your child might also benefit from a few routine changes in the home, like having a consistent bedtime or a more structured morning routine. 

As a parent, you can be proactive in your child’s care by collaborating with their pediatrician and being patient as your child adapts to the changes. 

Call Centennial Pediatrics of Spokane to schedule an appointment for a pediatric behavioral assessment.