Parents are often quite frustrated when dealing with hyperactive kids. Even kids who have been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD, and who are medicated may still pose challenges to any caregiver or to teachers. The following tips may help you better respond to hyperactive kids.
1)Set clear rules, consequences and boundaries for hyperactive kids and for the whole family. If necessary, write out the rules and keep them in a place that is visible the family. Don’t be flexible, because hyperactive kids really need rules they clearly understand. Be sure when introducing rules that you speak directly to your child, using eye contact, and asking the child to repeat back to you what you have told them. This doesn’t mean you can’t offer choices to hyperactive kids, but certain things like hitting, spitting or defiance should result in predictable consequences.
2)Establishing regular routines can help any child, especially hyperactive kids. Children of all types tend to have difficulty transitioning when routines are not clear and consistent. If a child knows that bedtime is at 8:00 pm, then he or she will naturally fall into the pattern of going to bed at 8:00. If bedtime is “anytime,” or if one allows a child with an 8:00 bedtime to go to bed at 9:00, or 8:30, then the child suffers from lack of routine, and will act up accordingly.
Below are some tips that can help you as you work on disciplining your hyperactive child.
Hyperactivity in Kids Tip #1: Teach Relaxation Techniques
While hyperactive children love to be active, it is healthy that they learn how to relax. Relaxation is good for both the mind and the body and can teach your child self-control. Work on sitting still with your child, teaching them to breathe deeply, close his or her eyes, and imagine a peaceful setting. It can sometimes help to massage their shoulders and hands in order to encourage relaxation, as well as play peaceful music.
Tip #2: Structure
Hyperactive children require structure in their environment. Make sure to stick to a schedule and provide boundaries for your child.
Tip #3: Throw out the phrase, “Time Out”
The concept is the same, but the name has changed. Use terms such as “quiet time” or “reflective time” that encourages stillness and thought.
Tip #4: Body Awareness
Teaching your child to be aware of their body and their space will help them to not impose on others’ space or person.
Tip #5: Listening
Hyperactivity in children can also show up verbally! If your child talks non-stop, teach them the importance of listening to other people and taking turns in the dialogue.
Tip #6: Supervision
Hyperactive children require a great deal of parental supervision and connectedness. When dealing with hyperactivity in kids, a large portion of the day is spent redirecting your child’s behavior and telling them to “stop”. Make sure to block out some time each and every day where you and your child can spend some quality time together enjoying each others’ company. This is a great time to demonstrate stillness and model positive behavior while enjoying your child’s company.
By: DELSAN D. LOPEZ | TEACHER III | LUZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | LIMAY,BATAAN
