Ways to Improve Hyperactive Child’s Focus, House-hold Chores for Hyperactive Kid

Nuclear homes, bigger classrooms- what do they have in common? Very less patience and limited time! It is the teachers and parents who are losing out on patience– and our children who are suffering as a result. From independent homes, we have moved to apartments; from outdoor courtyards to walled verandas.  Modern structures have replaced parks. Residential localities have become commercial. Roads which were used for playing cricket are now swarming with vehicles. In the last decade so much has changed! Adults have moved on, embracing the changes. As a result, it is our children whom we are almost walled in and restricted.

Nowhere to play, no outdoors to roam or laze– so where does their energy go? It would be bottled up and released right onto the parents and in the classroom. It takes no time for schools and doctors to label the child as suffering from ADHD(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). ADHD is a biological condition that makes it hard for children to concentrate, pay attention, sit still or curb their impulses. ADHD is hereditary. In my opinion, there would be one parent or a very close relative with a similar condition.

Hyperactive Behavior in Children

Hyperactivity is not easily defined. It often depends on the observer. Behavior that seems excessive to one person may not seem excessive to another. But certain children, when compared to others, are clearly far more active. This can become a problem if it interferes with school work or making friends. Hyperactivity is often considered more of a problem for schools and parents than it is for the child. But many hyperactive children are unhappy, or even depressed– often simply because they seem and feel ‘different’. Hyperactive behavior may make a child a target for bullying, or make it harder to connect with other children. Schoolwork may be more difficult. Kids who are hyperactive are frequently punished for their behavior.

A child who is normally very active often responds well to specific directions and a program of regular physical activity. But, a child with ADHD has a hard time following directions and controlling impulses.

Tips to Handle Hyperactive Child at Home

Easy tips to help control your child hyperactivity at home– connecting with your child and working together, the importance of setting a routine, how you can be flexible to constructively allow space for your child’s hyperactivity etc and more. Read this

• First and foremost understand your child so that both of you can work together as a team
• Set clear rules and expectations for your child.
• Create daily routines to provide structure. This is the most important. Allot time slots for every activity from the time they wake up to sleep.
• Break up directions and tasks into smaller chunks.
• Prepare checklists, picture schedules & sticky notes to help your child remain focussed, organized and getting things done. Teach them to tick off the tasks as they complete them.
• Use rewards- As they finish the tasks for the day, reward them with a glow sticker/star– and a hug. At the end of the week treat them to an extra hour of play or entertainment.
• Allow for flexibility during homework time for movement breaks. Allot time slots of 30 minutes (this time can differ based on your child) + 5 minutes break. During the break allow your child to move or stretch, walk, run, climb stairs, play with the stress ball or kick around a softball. Some would like to do art/craft.
• Keep a side project that your child can keep coming to during the break. What is important is the movement. Spotting a letter from a given magazine or newspaper article can reinforce focus.
• Create an organized homework and study area. Keep the study table facing a wall to minimize distraction.
• There may be changes in the schedule. It would be beneficial to keep them aware of the changes ahead of schedule. Mental preparation is important.

Simple Ways to Improve Your Hyperactive Child’s Focus -

1. Play “Freeze! Focus!” (A variation of the Statue game): Try playing a round of the game of “Freeze! Focus!” When she/he’s least expecting it, say, “Freeze! Focus!” and have him/her freeze in place (start with 10 seconds and build your way up). When time is up, ask him/her to describe three things s/he saw while s/he was frozen. Eventually, you can put up signs around the house that list rules and chores and ask your child to focus on them while s/he’s frozen.
2. Musical moments: Try creating a tune to letters while your child is spelling out a word. Clap and chant to a beat to accompany the natural rhythm of your child’s chores. Experiment with your child’s favorite songs for a fun, low-stress way to build concentration.
3. Experimental corner: Designate a small area in your house for the following activities so you can say,’ ok now it is time for us to go to the ‘experimental corner’, and…In this corner you can do all sorts of puzzles, crossword, scrabble, Sudoku with your child. Children usually come up with interesting projects. I know one child who loves to sculpt on chalks. Another one collects matchstick box covers and arranges them interestingly. One child collects dead leaves.

So go along with your child’s interests and you will be just so amazed by the options. Other activities can be art/craft, martial art, dance, music, robotics etc.

Household Chores to Entertain Hyperactive Child

It is best to engage children who have extra energy into physical activities. Here are a few ideas to get you started -

• Washing the car/scooter/bike
• Playing with pets / walking the dog
• Cleaning the house
• Gardening
• Throwing the trash
• Setting the table/ helping in the kitchen

When to Contact Medical Practitioners/Professional -

• Your child seems hyperactive all the time.
• Your child is very active, aggressive, impulsive, and has difficulty concentrating.
• Your child's activity level is causing social difficulties or difficulty with schoolwork.

Did you find Swapna’sblog on hyperactive children useful? Do you have a hyperactive child – how do you cope? Do leave your comments…. We love hearing from you!