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.