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.

By Priscilla Scherer, R.N. Verified Updated on July 10, 2017
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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.