Did you know that many signs of ADHD can be mistaken for “just a phase” and often go unnoticed until much later in childhood? Left unaddressed, ADHD can affect a child’s learning, confidence, and relationships. But the good news is: early support can make a world of difference.
In this edition of “Ask The Expert”, we speak with Keith Wang, Clinic Director of Bonfire Pediatrics Singapore. He shares his professional insights to help parents distinguish between typical childhood behaviour and possible early indicators of ADHD, and more importantly, what to do when your gut tells you something might be off.
Question and Answer
Question: Is adhd and autism the same?
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for your question. ADHD and autism are not the same, but they can sometimes look similar in young kids. ADHD is mainly about challenges with attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. Autism is more about how a child communicates, socialises, and responds to routines or sensory experiences. Kids with ADHD often struggle to stick to routines, while autistic kids may rely heavily on them to feel safe. Some children have both, which is why getting a proper assessment is important. The support really depends on what your child actually needs, and asking early helps you give them the right kind of help.
Question: Can food or screen time affect ADHD symptoms?????
Keith Wang: Hi Dawn, thanks for your question. Yes, some foods and excessive screen time can make ADHD symptoms more intense. Some kids are more sensitive to certain food additives, preservatives, or sugar spikes, which might lead to mood swings or energy crashes. It doesn’t mean sugar is bad, but balancing their intake (with other healthy foods) and frequency can help with steadier focus and behaviour. Same with screen time – too much overstimulation can make it harder for kids with ADHD to regulate their focus and emotions, especially after fast-paced or highly stimulating content.
On the flip side, fish oil or foods rich in omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA, may help with attention, focus, and emotional regulation – the effects won’t be as significant as medication but it’s an alternative if you prefer a non-medication approach with less side effects. So while food and screens don’t directly cause ADHD, they definitely affect their behaviours!
Question: If want to check ah, go paediatrician or psychologist better?
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for your question. If you’re concerned about your child’s behaviour, focus, or emotions – a child psychologist is usually the better starting point. Paediatricians are great for checking physical health and development, but psychologists go deeper into things like attention, emotions, and how your child is coping day to day. That said, if you’re already seeing a paediatrician for regular checkups, you can also bring it up there first – and they might refer you to a psychologist if needed. Either way, you’re not wrong to ask. It just depends on what you want to understand better.
Question: Honestly, we blur blur, first-time parents, dunno where to start.
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for reaching out! Most first-time parents feel this way. There’s no manual for parenting, and every child is different. What matters is that you’re paying attention, asking questions, and trying to understand your child better – that already makes a huge difference. If you ever feel unsure about their behaviour, development, or emotions, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Getting support doesn’t mean you’ve failed – it just means you care enough to want to do right by your child. You’re doing better than you think!
Question: Is there any way to avoid ADHD? I’m expecting, so a bit worried.
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for reaching out. First of all the fact that you’re thinking about this now already shows how much love and intention you’re putting into parenting. ADHD isn’t something you can fully prevent – it’s influenced by a mix of genetics and how the brain develops over time (can be acquired through brain injuries, but very rare). What you can do now, is create the best possible environment for your baby’s brain to grow strong and steady. That means things like calm bonding in the early months, lots of face-to-face interaction, good sleep, predictable routines, and low-stress caregiving. You don’t need to do perfect parenting because it doesn’t exist. You’re already doing great just by asking this question!
Question: i always wonder if i need to get my son checked or not… he is super active and can’t sit still for even 5 minutes?
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, if that question keeps coming back to you, it’s probably worth checking – not because something is definitely wrong, but because your gut is telling you something feels off. Some kids are naturally active, but if he truly can’t sit still even for short moments like meals, storytime, or quiet play, and it’s making daily routines stressful, then getting him checked can bring clarity. It’s not about giving him a label – it’s about understanding him better, and knowing how to support him so he can excel in school and in life. You’re doing the right thing just by paying attention to your boy. Thanks for asking!
Question: How young can ADHD be diagnosed ah? My girl only 3, but already very impulsive and cannot sit still. Too early to tell?
Keith Wang: Hi Christina, thanks for your question. At age 3, it’s still a little early for a formal ADHD diagnosis. The ideal earliest age is between 6 and 7, but for some kids with very obvious signs, we can see them earlier (4 to 5 year old). At age 3, some restlessness and impulsiveness are still part of normal development, but if it feels like your child really can’t slow down, switches from one thing to another non-stop, and it’s affecting day-to-day routines, it’s okay to get a professional opinion. At this age, parenting support is just as important as a diagnosis. You’re doing the right thing by asking early and trusting your mummy instincts!
Question: Is it true sugar causes it. my daughter loves cake. i started introduce her to sweets starting 1 yo… of course moderately
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy. The short answer is no – sugar doesn’t cause ADHD. However, sugar can spike our kids’ energy levels and crash them quickly. If your girl is diagnosed with ADHD or have strong symptoms of ADHD, sugar can make her behaviors more intense. That doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong by giving her sweets – introducing them moderately is fine. What matters most is frequency and a balanced lifestyle for her – stable routines, enough sleep, balanced diet, and time to move and play all have a bigger impact on your child’s development than the occasional slice of cake.
Question: is ADHD genetic? i remember i was quite “naughty” as a child too, but I turned out okay and can function. but i remember i was a kid who couldnt stand still.
Keith Wang: Hi Vivian, thank you for sharing that. Yes, ADHD does tend to run in families (although it can be acquired too), and many parents only realize they might have traits themselves when they see similar patterns in their kids. You’re right – being “naughty” back then might have just been your way of coping with all that restlessness inside. The fact that you turned out okay shows how resilient you are, but it also doesn’t mean your childhood was easy. If your child is showing signs now, checking early just gives them a smoother path and the kind of support we didn’t always get growing up. Thanks for being curious in your child!
Question: doc do i have to worry if my toddler seems like he has too much energy compared to his friends at this age 4 yo. but husband says its normal for boys to be active
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for sharing. Yes, many boys are naturally more active than girls, but if your son truly can’t sit still at all, struggles to follow through on simple tasks, or the energy is so intense it’s affecting routines or making daily life feel harder, it’s okay to go for a check. It’s ok if he is more energetic than his friends – children with ADHD can do very well in sports and with the right support, even in school and life beyond. Trust your instincts as a mum, you are doing very well looking out for him.
Question: doc can screen time leads to adhd??? i never give my daughter screen time (2 yo (the oldest) 10 mo (the youngest), but you know, my parents always say i’m exagerrating 😭
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, you’re not exaggerating at all! You’re being smart and thoughtful, and I’m so happy that you are so disciplined – keep it up! Screen time doesn’t cause ADHD, but too much of it, especially before age 2, will rewire the brain negatively, affecting attention, sleep, and emotional regulation. MOH has real guidance on this that you can share with your parents (i.e “”chenghu say, not i say””). At this age, your kids’ brains need more face-to-face play, movement, and human interaction. So limiting screens during this stage isn’t being extreme – it’s giving their brain what it actually needs to grow well. You’re doing a great job, even if the older generation doesn’t always understand why!
MOH guidance on screentime usage: https://www.moh.gov.sg/others/resources-and-statistics/guidance-on-screen-use
Question: Sometimes my daughter 2,5 yo throws tantrum until I dunno what to do… she says “milkie” but when i give her milk she just throws it away… Like very sensitive. Could this be part of ADHD?
Keith Wang: Hi Adeline, thanks for sharing. What you described – asking for milk then throwing it – can feel very confusing, especially when it keeps happening. Sometimes, when kids react like that, it’s not just about being “naughty” or testing limits. It could be that her senses are reacting strongly – like the taste, texture, or even temperature felt too much in that moment. This can happen in kids with sensory sensitivities, and yes, it can also show up in ADHD. But sensory processing challenges (i.e. hypersensitivity) can be mistaken as ADHD. If it’s affecting day-to-day stuff or you just feel stuck, a quick consult can give you answers and tools that make things easier. You’re doing great already by noticing and reaching out.
Question: How early can ADHD be diagnosed, can you suggest when to go to dr? My kid is only 3, but already very restless and impulsive. Idk if its normal or not. watch to many video on tiktok it scares me
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for your question. If you feel the tiktok videos are making you more anxious than feeling understood, do consider a professional consultation instead. The ideal earliest age is between 6 and 7, but for some kids with very obvious signs, we can see them earlier (4 to 5 year old). At age 3, some restlessness and impulsiveness are still part of normal development, but if it feels like your child really can’t slow down, switches from one thing to another non-stop, and it’s affecting day-to-day routines, it’s okay to get a professional opinion. At this age, parenting support is just as important as a diagnosis. You’re doing the right thing by asking early and trusting your mummy instincts!
Question: Is ADHD caused by too much screen time? My in-laws keep blaming the iPad… but is that really true or just a myth. sometimes we give our son ipad when we go out. just to buy a bit of peaceful time
Keith Wang: Hi Lydia, you’re not alone. Sometimes, parents rely on the iPad for a breather, especially when going out. The short answer is: no, screen time does not cause ADHD. That’s a myth. But too much fast-paced, overstimulating screen time can make ADHD symptoms more obvious – things like restlessness, poor sleep, shorter attention spans, poorer emotional regulation. It doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong by giving your son the iPad sometimes. It’s really about balance. Occasional use with limits, especially during tough moments, is completely okay.
I suggest you read and follow MOH guidance on screentime usage: https://www.moh.gov.sg/others/resources-and-statistics/guidance-on-screen-use
Question: Doc when does ‘active’ become ‘hyperactive’? I’m not sure if I’m overthinking or missing something.everytime i feel my daughter moves too m uch my mother or MIL always says i think too much
Keith Wang: Huda, thanks for your question, you’re not overthinking – most of our clients are mums who have great instincts. Active kids can still pause when needed – like during storytime, meals, or sleep. Hyperactive kids often can’t slow down even when it’s quiet time. They may climb, fidget, talk, or move non-stop, and it starts to affect routines or safety. If you feel like she’s constantly “on” and it’s making day-to-day life harder, it’s okay to ask for a professional view – not to label, but to understand what’s really going on.
Question: Hi doc… my son almost 2 years old but still cannot follow instructions properly. like always halfway do halfway stop. even simple one like “bring the ball to dada”, he takes the ball from me but drop it halfway. is this something i should worry about doc??? how to stimulate?
Keith Wang: Hi Jess, thanks for your question. At this age, toddlers are still learning how to process instructions, but by around 18 to 24 months, most kids can follow simple one-step requests like “bring the ball” or “give it to dada.” If your son regularly stops halfway or seems unsure what to do, it could be due to a few reasons – maybe he’s still figuring out the meaning of the words, maybe he’s distracted, or maybe he’s not yet linking the instruction to the action. It’s not about diagnosing anything at this point, but it’s a good time to observe and support. You can help by using very short phrases, showing him what to do step by step, and praising when he completes even part of it. If things don’t improve over the next 6 months, then do consider a developmental pediatrician first for checking milestones. If the pediatrician suggests a deeper assessment, our child psychologist can help. You are not alone on this confusion!
Question: Doc, I knew so many kids labelled ADHD these days. idk if they’re really diagnosed for that??? i mean they look ok to me… yes some of them have this extreme behavior but they’re just kids right. and even in adults too, i know people who self diagnosed like “i think i might have adhd” How do we know for sure and avoid over-diagnosing?
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for your question. ADHD isn’t diagnosed just because a child has “”extreme behaviors””. A proper diagnosis takes time – we look at behavior across different settings (home, school), over a period of time, and only if it’s truly affecting the child’s ability to learn, focus or connect. It’s not based on one tantrum or one noisy classroom. And yes – a lot of adults relate to ADHD traits online, but unless it’s formally assessed by a trained psychologist or doctor, it’s just a guess. So to avoid over-diagnosing, we stick to structured assessments, detailed observations, and input from people who know the child well.
Remember, all kids want to do well if you give them the right environment to do so – even ADHD kids!
Question: i saw a lot of video on tiktok discussing around adhd… and it actually scares me. i’ll give birth next month. does that have anything with early life of the baby?? what should i prepare?
i have someone who was diagnosed hyperactive when he was 4 years old, got some therapy (idk any details), and now is a lot better. is it inherited?
Keith Wang: Hi Cassandra, thanks for your question, I understand your worry, especially with your baby arriving soon. ADHD can run in families, so if someone had it as a child, there’s a higher chance, but it’s not a given. ADHD can also be acquired along the way. What matters more is setting up a calm and responsive environment in the early years – sleep, diet, minimal screen time, and routines make a huge difference in brain development. You’re already thinking ahead, and that’s the best gift you can give your child.
Remember, ADHD itself isn’t a flaw or “”scary””. It just feels more challenging to parent children with ADHD, but early diagnosis, intervention and changes in home environment makes the parenting efforts lighter. You are already doing very well preparing for your baby!
Question: doc, i always been anxious about ADHD. i am scared if my son has it. really want to go to professional for proper observation but my husband said i overthink too much. he lacks focus especially while eating, cant sit still. also get easily distracted from one task to another. i think its ok if he turn out doesnt have ADHD but at least i get him checked. he’s now 28 months old
Keith Wang: Hi Sabrina, thanks for your question. You are not overthinking – most of our clients are mums who have great instincts. At 28 months, some signs may show up early if the ADHD isn’t mild , but a psychologist can help you understand what’s within the range of normal and what might need extra support. Remember, ADHD is not a flaw; it can seem scary because it feels more challenging to parent children with ADHD. But early diagnosis and intervention makes the parenting efforts lighter as your son gets older. Thanks for being curious in your son, you are not alone in this!
Question: I feel like my son never listen to me one. Every time I say no, he sure scream or throw tantrum. Honestly ah, sometimes I feel very overwhelmed and also quite paiseh, especially when outside…
But also cannot because of that then don’t bring him out right? Just sometimes I wish I knew what to do or what actually works… Like that, should go and get him checked or not ah?
Keith Wang: Hi Mummy, thanks for your question, I can feel how stressful it is for you – managing meltdowns while feeling paiseh outside is no small thing. And the fact that you’re still bringing him out, still trying to figure out what works – that already shows how much you care about your boy. Some kids do go through a strong reaction phase when they hear “no”, but if it’s happening often and making daily life feel hard, it’s okay to get support. Getting him checked isn’t saying something’s wrong – it just means you care enough to understand him better. That’s not weakness, that’s smart. Is he mirroring your family members? If your spouse or family members are showing anger often, your son will pick up these emotions and learn similar behaviours. Maybe you can bring your spouse along for a consultation.
About the Expert
Keith Wang is the Clinic Director at Bonfire Pediatrics Singapore. With extensive experience in child development, behavioural psychology, and parent-child dynamics, Keith specializes in helping families better understand the emotional and cognitive needs of their children. His mission is to provide early intervention strategies that are practical, supportive, and tailored to each child’s unique needs.
If you’re reading this and some of the answers hit close to home, remember, you are not alone. Many parents struggle to “parent” or find the right solutions for their child, especially when it comes to ADHD. Visit Nightingale, an AI Parenting Coach, available 24/7 via WhatsApp. Try 30 days for free at bonfirepediatrics.com/nightingale.
