ADD vs. NLD
Nonverbal learning disorders are often misdiagnosed as ADD, or unrecognized. Identifying your child’s traits may help you determine if your child have ADD, NLD, or both.
ADHD
- Can’t sit still, fidgety. High levels of energy.
- Impulsive, engages in dangerous activities. Can’t wait his turn.
- Talks rapidly, interrupts impulsively.
- Easily distracted. Shifts focus prematurely from one activity to another.
- Seeks change and novelty.
Overlapping Signs
- Poor social skills.
- Academic difficulties.
- Inattentive.
- Overfocuses on certain tasks.
- Often talks excessively.
- Says exactly what she’s thinking when she thinks it. No internal censor.
Nonverbal Learning Disorder
- Poor balance and athletic skills. Sedentary. Poor spatial skills. Clumsy.
- Highly verbal. Precocious language acquisition and articulate speech.
- Poor fine motor skills. Poor handwriting.
- Does not do well with novelty or change. A homebody. Risk-averse.