Movement is a necessary part of every child’s growing up. Of course there is a wide range of difference in degree. But for a hyperactive child it is extremely difficult to be within the normal range for movement. This child is active to such an extent that he has difficulty in adjusting to regular family living or behaving which is expected.
A parent expects the young child to be quiet for ten minutes or more, to remain in one place without moving, or to pay attention for a long period. Well…this is not possible for any child. And remember the more the child is told to behave, be quiet or still, the greater the problem may become. Do not expect from young child, behaviour that is impossible for him. Instead of becoming less active, these demands when placed upon him may make him more active.
How do you recognize a hyperactive child?
The child who is hyperactive generally has an abundance of physical energy. And he needs to release this energy.
§ He does not respond well to verbal scolding or ever-verbal praise
§ He is more often a problem in groups of children than when he is alone.
§ Though he likes activities too many activities around him may confuse and distract him
So how do you reduce hyperactive behavior?
The first step is removal of tension. The parent’s goal should be to reduce hyperactivity and not to ELIMINATE it.
§ Do not attempt to reward the child if he keeps still, this method is not realistic. The goal as mentioned above should be merely a lessening of the activity.
§ Give the child activities, which involve movement, which he can do even at home.
§ Activities like cleaning the room, setting the table, picking up toys, drying the washed dishes, picking the clothes when dry can be very effective but ONLY if done without any scolding. See to it that you don’t order the child to do the above activities but request him. And if the child refuses, leave him.
§ Do not wait for the hyperactive child to misbehave. A parent is usually sensitive to the child’s behaviour and need for movement. As soon as the child shows restlessness give him some work which he loves and which involves movements.
§ Praise him for good behaviour instead of being criticized.
§ Don’t say, “I knew you were going to get into trouble”. Don’t merely watch.
§ Be wise and turn the negative situation into one that is positive.
§ When the child gets into trouble being in a group of children, remove him for a short period of time from the presence of other children. This is more so when the child becomes highly excitable.
§ Don’t scold or preach him when trying to reason with him during such occasions.
§ Television has been found to be disturbing for hyperactive children. So avoid any kind of over stimulation.
§ See to it that family activities should not involve frantic behaviour. This causes confusion in a hyperactive child, as too many activities happen at once during such frantic behaviour. Clear direction to do things is very important for the child.
§ Movement must be allowed but in a controlled situation. Because the hyperactive child is a child, there are times when he is going to get into trouble, don’t lose hope as parents. These moments pass.
A hyperactive child is generally warm, outgoing and lovable; he is most willing to help, particularly if it involves physical activity that requires using up of his excess energy.
You should provide a home situation secure with love and with minimum of disturbing factors. In cases of extreme hyperactivity in children, which cannot be handled at home, the child should be taken to a doctor.
