Could ADHD Be Affecting My Child?

What Parents in our Community need to know.

As a licensed therapist working with families in Maryland, I’ve seen how often attention challenges in children—especially in African American and Latinx communities—are misunderstood or overlooked. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most common childhood conditions, yet stigma, systemic bias, and lack of access to care often prevent early diagnosis and treatment. 

In the U.S., roughly 11.3% of children ages 5-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD during 2020-2022. White non-Hispanic children (13.4%) are more likely to receive a diagnosis than Black non-Hispanic (10.8%) and Hispanic (8.9%) children, even when symptoms are similar. CDC In Maryland, about 16.7% of children ages 3-17 were reported in 2022-2023 to have some form of diagnosed mental health or behavioral issue (which includes ADHD among other conditions), underscoring how many young people are navigating challenges quietly.  

Why Diagnosis Matters 

Untreated ADHD can lead to academic struggles, conflicts at home, and behavioral misunderstandings in schools. Teachers may mistake ADHD symptoms for “defiance” or “laziness,” which disproportionately impacts children of color. A 2021 study from Harvard noted that children of color are more likely to be disciplined for behaviors tied to ADHD, rather than supported with resources. 

Getting a proper diagnosis not only helps your child access therapy, medication (if needed), or school accommodations—it can also change the way your child sees themselves. When a child understands that their brain simply works differently, it replaces shame with self-awareness and growth. 

What Is the T.O.V.A Test? 

One tool available at Alliance Wellness Solutions is the Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A), a computerized assessment designed to objectively measure attention and impulsivity. Unlike questionnaires or observations that can be influenced by bias, the T.O.V.A provides measurable data that helps confirm or rule out ADHD (TOVA Company, 2024). 

This matters because African American and Latinx children are too often misdiagnosed—or not diagnosed at all—when subjective measures are the only tools being used. The T.O.V.A offers families a clearer picture, ensuring treatment decisions are based on science, not stereotypes. 

Signs Parents Should Watch For 

While every child is unique, here are common ADHD symptoms to look for: 

• Difficulty staying focused on tasks or conversations 

• Frequent forgetfulness (losing items, missing assignments) 

• Restlessness or difficulty sitting still 

• Impulsive actions or blurting out answers 

• Trouble following multi-step directions 

If these behaviors persist across settings (home, school, social spaces), it’s worth having a conversation with a professional. 

How Parents Can Take the First Step 

1. Trust Your Observations – You know your child best. If something feels “off,” don’t dismiss it. 

2. Talk to Your Child’s Teacher – Ask what they notice in the classroom. Patterns across environments are important. 

3. Schedule a Professional Screening – A therapist or psychiatrist can use tools like the T.O.V.A, along with interviews and history, to provide a comprehensive evaluation. 

4. Address Stigma in the Community – Share accurate information with friends and family. ADHD is not a character flaw; it’s a neurological difference that can be supported. 

Building a Future of Support 

For African American and Latinx families, the barriers to diagnosis and care are real—but so are the solutions. Awareness, advocacy, and access to tools like the T.O.V.A test create opportunities for children to thrive. At Alliance Wellness Solutions, we’re committed to walking this journey with you and ensuring every family has the chance to understand and support their child’s needs. 

If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD could be affecting your child, now is the time to act. Early intervention can make all the difference. 

References 

• Coker TR, et al. “Racial/Ethnic Disparities in the Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD.” Pediatrics. 2016. 

• Harvard Graduate School of Education. “Racial Disparities in ADHD Diagnosis.” 2021. 

• TOVA Company. “About the T.O.V.A Test.” 2024