3 Activities That Help Kids With ADHD Thrive
Children with ADHD find it difficult to focus and channel their excess of energy. Here are some ways to help them.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 6-9% of children worldwide. Children with ADHD often struggle with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can negatively impact their academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Medication is one way to cope with ADHD but more and more parents and physicians try to find other ways, and have come to the conclusion that many activities can help children with ADHD to manage their symptoms and thrive.
Here are three fun ways for a kid with ADHD to feel better, focus and release some energy:
Physical Exercise
Physical exercise can be a very effective way for children with ADHD and this is because when we exercise we produce endorphins, which can help to improve mood and decrease hyperactivity. Sports like running, swimming, dancing and of course team sports like basketball or football are great options for children of any age. Children are having fun doing them and feel great afterwards. These activities also offer intense labor so children will sleep better and establishing a good sleep routine is also beneficial with children with ADHD.
Meditation
Meditation, and specifically mindfulness meditation is found to improve attention and reduce impulsivity in children with ADHD. Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment and research suggests it can be very helpful for children with attention deficit. Children can practice mindfulness meditation in some yoga classes for kids like the ones offered by the Children’s Yoga Richterswil, online through Youtube videos or even on mobile apps.
Brain Games
Brain games, board games and puzzles can also be beneficial for children with ADHD. Activities like these can help children improve focus and concentration and also provide an opportunity for social interaction. Games that involve strategy and problem-solving, such as chess or Sudoku, can be particularly helpful. Board games like Monopoly or Cluedo can promote positive communication and are a great way to bond as a family.
In addition to these activities, establishing a routine and structure can provide a sense of predictability and reduce stress that is often the cause of impulsivity. Providing clear and concise instructions can also help to improve attention and reduce frustration. It can also be helpful to break tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps to make them less overwhelming. These are all great strategies that can be helpful for children with ADHD.
It is important to note that not all children with ADHD will respond to the same activities or strategies. So working with a healthcare professional or therapist is vital to developing a unique plan that takes into account the individual needs and preferences of each child. However, by incorporating activities such as physical exercise, mindfulness meditation, and board games, parents and caregivers can provide children with ADHD with tools to manage their symptoms and thrive.