When it comes to alleviating your child’s ADHD symptoms, the power of play is indisputable. Games, sports, and the arts help your child channel their energies into fun activities that engage their mind, build confidence, and inspire goal-making. Give any or all of these activities a try with your child with ADHD. Together you might even find their next favorite hobby.
- Running
Running is a great way for your child to burn off excess energy and clear their mind. Whether they want to join a team or go at it alone, running can help them wind down after school.
Running also has the power to give your child confidence in their abilities. The sense of accomplishment that comes with being able to run faster and farther inspires feelings of satisfaction and gives your child goals to work towards.
- Swimming
Swimming is another great way for your child to get their body moving. The constant movement needed for swimming with proper form inspires self-discipline and focus.
Since many kids with ADHD suffer from lack of coordination, swimming is useful because of the water resistance it provides. Your child will be able to focus on their body movements more than they would if they were out of the water, especially since the amount of distractions available to your child when they’re in the water is minimal.
- Music
For a mind running wild with hyperactivity, the structure music provides can be very comforting.
Musical therapy is a popular treatment for people with ADHD because of its ability to increase brain function and break down social barriers.
Has your child ever wanted to learn to play an instrument or join their school’s band program? Encourage them to give it a try. If they enjoy making their own music, they’ll likely find that regular music practice helps alleviate their ADHD symptoms.
- Theater
We’ve all heard the success stories of actors with ADHD who shine on stage. Drama, theater, and the arts can help your child channel their energy into creative outlets.
If your child has issues in math- and science-based subjects, succeeding with the arts will help give them the confidence they need to perform well in other subjects, too.
Talk to your child about what their hobbies and interests are and let this information guide you when helping them choose what activity they’ll engage in to help alleviate their ADHD symptoms. With your help and a willingness to try new things, they might even find a lifelong hobby in one of these activities.
Additional sites for ADHD information:
ADD / ADHD and School: Helping Children and Teens with ADHD Succeed at School
ADHD and Learning Disabilities: School Help
College Assistance Guide for People with ADHD
The Best Software and Gadgets for ADHD Students
The Ultimate ADHD Apps Guide: 18 Apps to Make Managing Your ADHD Simpler
Strategies to Empower, Not Control, Kids Labeled ADD/ADHD
How Dogs Can Help People with ADD & ADHD
ADHD and Stress: Does One Cause the Other?
ADHD and Addiction: What is the Risk?
Sara Bell was raised by teacher parents. They instilled in her an appreciation for curiosity and learning. That’s why she enjoys writing for EducatorLabs and having the opportunity to share high-quality digital learning resources with people of all ages. In her spare time, she loves to read, write, and knit.
