Suitable Activities for Children ADHD

Children diagnosed with ADHD can benefit from a wide range of activities specially suited to address their needs. As the symptoms associated with the condition can involve hyperactive behavior, impulsiveness and apathy, activities need to be tailored in a way that provides for the facilitation and constructive expression of the symptoms.

Physically demanding undertakings such as hiking, camping and team sports help to positively re-direct the child’s energy. It is important that the children actually enjoy the activity so that they can actively engage in it, as opposed to passively participating in it.

Team sports and group activities have the added advantage of teaching responsibility and self-control. Since keeping the body and mind in a highly active state is of primary importance, individual sports can also function as appropriate activities. Swimming, running and biking, to name a few, can be as equally suitable as team sports.

Activities that lead to tangible results are effective in focusing attention and utilizing energy. There are many artistic pursuits capable of accommodating this particular need in children with ADHD. Painting, crafts, music and dancing are examples of activities that can serve to productively occupy their time. Adult supervision is advised in order to guide and maintain the child’s interest in the activity. This can be carried out by asking questions, assisting in the process of the activity or offering words of motivation.

Problem solving activities are also well-suited for children with ADHD, as they too produce tangible results and keep the mind engaged. Lego building, puzzle making and wood-working can provide hours of fruitful activity. The transformation of thoughts into actual results is a very gratifying experience and helps form positive reinforcement for the effort that the children put into the task.

Parents and caretakers responsible for children with ADHD must take the time to know and understand their child. The successful implementation of activities depends on the degree to which the child takes an interest in it. Some children will respond better to group-oriented activities, while others will prosper individually.

A combination of the above-mentioned activities is recommended, so as to avoid the possibility of boredom setting in. Children with ADHD can lead perfectly normal lives. It is simply a matter of guiding them in the right direction and teaching them proper adaptive skills. 

This post is brought to you by Argosy University. Drawing upon our more than 30-year history of granting degrees in professional psychology, Argosy University has developed a curriculum that focuses on interpersonal skills and practical experience alongside academic learning. Because getting a degree is one thing. Succeeding, quite another.

Sources
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=50356
http://adhdchildparenting.com/adhd-child-therapeutic-activities.php
http://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/guide/ast_oneadhd-children