By Emmanuel Palmer
How do you define hyperactivity in children? A child is said to be
hyperactive when he displays excessively disruptive and rowdy behavior.
Despite their knack for often irascible manners, hyperactive children
are more often than not, intelligent when given the opportunity to
develop. The problem then is finding out how to deal with a hyper child
in the way that will benefit him the most.
Perhaps because of lack of information, if a child is too energetic people tend to assume that they have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. This is not always the case. Children are endowed with an abundant supply of energy; and because contained environments are stifling to many of them-they resort to giving vent to this energy in an unruly and disorderly manner.
If you think ADHD is the culprit behind your child's inability to focus and behave-then you must get him a complete check-up immediately before you proceed to any kind of action. How else will anybody know how to deal with a hyper child if his condition is not accurately determined yet? You can, however, undertake these helpful measures to ensure his best health whatever the outcome of his tests are.
A relaxing environment will help in preventing any riotous fit. Keep in mind that loud and incessant sounds are unfavorable stimulants that can trigger a hyperactive child's sensitive mood. Organize your home by de-cluttering and putting things in its proper place. Soothing music and lightly running your hand over the child's head have a calming effect for him.
Diet plays a crucial role in every child's life. Sugar and caffeine should be avoided whenever possible. Nutmeg, cinnamon and even some food dyes are said to trigger hyperactivity and headaches to some individuals. Whatever your child's condition, a healthy and nutritional diet of vegetables and the right amount of minerals will do him well.
It is also important for hyperactive children to have a routine they can follow faithfully. A set schedule will provide the structure and order they need to feel secure. You need to be caring but firm when you impose these rules. You cannot let them get their own way. Call a family meeting to discuss these rules so they can also help in guiding the child to adhere to it.
Now, if your child has ADHD, it's not the end of the world. ADHD may be challenging, but it is quite manageable. There are some medications available like Ritalin; but drugs like these should be the last resort in handling this condition. If you must, there are natural supplements that specifically work to keep ADHD under control.
Use positive reinforcement instead of the scolding the child. Remember, because he is hyperactive, he has probably been reprimanded frequently in the outside world already. Too much negativity bombarding him may cause aggressive and rebellious behavior. They need to know that they are loved and they are safe with you. Hyperactivity may be a challenge-but it is a great opportunity to show unconditional love and patience to your precious child.
Perhaps because of lack of information, if a child is too energetic people tend to assume that they have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. This is not always the case. Children are endowed with an abundant supply of energy; and because contained environments are stifling to many of them-they resort to giving vent to this energy in an unruly and disorderly manner.
If you think ADHD is the culprit behind your child's inability to focus and behave-then you must get him a complete check-up immediately before you proceed to any kind of action. How else will anybody know how to deal with a hyper child if his condition is not accurately determined yet? You can, however, undertake these helpful measures to ensure his best health whatever the outcome of his tests are.
A relaxing environment will help in preventing any riotous fit. Keep in mind that loud and incessant sounds are unfavorable stimulants that can trigger a hyperactive child's sensitive mood. Organize your home by de-cluttering and putting things in its proper place. Soothing music and lightly running your hand over the child's head have a calming effect for him.
Diet plays a crucial role in every child's life. Sugar and caffeine should be avoided whenever possible. Nutmeg, cinnamon and even some food dyes are said to trigger hyperactivity and headaches to some individuals. Whatever your child's condition, a healthy and nutritional diet of vegetables and the right amount of minerals will do him well.
It is also important for hyperactive children to have a routine they can follow faithfully. A set schedule will provide the structure and order they need to feel secure. You need to be caring but firm when you impose these rules. You cannot let them get their own way. Call a family meeting to discuss these rules so they can also help in guiding the child to adhere to it.
Now, if your child has ADHD, it's not the end of the world. ADHD may be challenging, but it is quite manageable. There are some medications available like Ritalin; but drugs like these should be the last resort in handling this condition. If you must, there are natural supplements that specifically work to keep ADHD under control.
Use positive reinforcement instead of the scolding the child. Remember, because he is hyperactive, he has probably been reprimanded frequently in the outside world already. Too much negativity bombarding him may cause aggressive and rebellious behavior. They need to know that they are loved and they are safe with you. Hyperactivity may be a challenge-but it is a great opportunity to show unconditional love and patience to your precious child.
