1. Difficulty concentrating on tasks that are not intellectually challenging.
Gifted children may have a hard time focusing their attention on activities or tasks that they find boring, mundane, or not mentally stimulating. This is because these types of activities require a level of focus and concentration that gifted individuals tend to lack. Instead, they require activities that spark their curiosity and engage them in critical thinking.
2. Highly energetic—needs little sleep or downtime.
Gifted children often have an abundance of energy and enthusiasm which can lead to difficulty sleeping or focusing on one task for extended periods of time. They need activities that will keep them mentally challenged, as well as ample opportunities for physical activity or creative outlets.
3. Impulsive, eager, and spirited
Gifted children may act impulsively due to their heightened level of excitement about new ideas and experiences. This can manifest itself as impulsiveness, restlessness, or eagerness to try new things. Gifted individuals are also often more spirited than most people, with a strong sense of social justice and fairness that can drive them to stand up for what they believe in.
4. Issues with executive functioning
Executive functioning involves the ability to plan, organize, and manage complex tasks and activities. Gifted children may struggle with executive functioning due to their high level of intellectual stimulation—they may be able to come up with creative solutions quickly without considering the consequences or practicalities of their actions.
5. Need for constant mental stimulation.
Due to their intense curiosity and capacity for learning, gifted individuals often require a continuous stream of mentally stimulating activities to keep them engaged and excited about life. They may become easily bored or frustrated when presented with mundane tasks or lectures that do not engage their intellects.
6. Has problems staying focused on tasks or activities.
Children with ADHD often have a hard time paying attention to tasks and activities for any length of time. They may become easily distracted and forget what they were supposed to be doing, leading to difficulty completing tasks in a timely manner.
7. Blurts out an answer before a question has been finished.
Impulsiveness is one of the hallmark signs of ADHD, and children may find themselves blurting out answers to questions or speaking without thinking before the speaker has even finished asking the question.
8. Interrupts or intrudes on others.
Due to their impulsivity, children with ADHD may interrupt conversations or jump into someone else’s activity without being invited. This can make it difficult for them to make and maintain friends.
9. Talks too much.
Children with ADHD may talk non-stop, often about topics that are of little interest to those around them. They may also monopolize conversations or not give others a chance to speak.
10. Has problems organizing tasks and work.
Organizational skills can be an issue for children with ADHD, as they often struggle with managing multiple tasks at once and keeping track of important items such as homework or personal belongings. This can lead to disorganization in their daily activities which can interfere with their ability to stay on task and complete tasks in a timely manner.