Unlocking ADHD writer Stephanie Cheng explores fun and engaging activities parents can plan for their child or teen with ADHD.
ADHD children may struggle to manage their attention and emotions, resulting in hyperactivity and impulsivity or inattentiveness, as well as organization problems.
Because of this, finding appropriate activities for children with ADHD can be challenging at times.
But don’t worry, we’ve compiled a list of exciting and interesting activities that you can do with your child! These activities are a great way for your child to have fun while also helping them in managing their ADHD symptoms. With family fun, you can lead your child to a more rewarding path in his or her journey with ADHD!
For Children
- Arts and Crafts: Creating artwork is an easy and calming activity for a child with ADHD to use their creativity and imagination. This is great for both Hyperactive Impulsive-type and Inattentive-type ADHD children, as they can benefit in terms of improving mental flexibility and problem-solving abilities. Activities can range from filling out a colouring sheet to selecting a simple art activity or project to complete.
- A Scavenger Hunt: Searching for objects in a scavenger hunt can help keep both the body and the mind active. This will be especially great for inattentive-type ADHD children, as they can learn to focus better and improve attentional control. To do this, you can try hiding items around the house, and drop hints on where to find them
- Yoga for Kids: Researchers in several studies suggest that practicing yoga can have a positive effect on kids with ADHD. Yoga is beneficial for both hyperactive Impulsive-type and inattentive-type ADHD as it reduces symptoms and enhances focus. ADDitude Magazine offers a free booklet on mindfulness activities that you can practice with your children!
For Teens
- Sports: Engaging in sports can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This is great for hyperactive impulsive-type ADHD teens to channel their energy. Teens with ADHD tend to do better in individual sports because of the individualized attention they receive. Such sports include: Swimming, Martial Arts, and Tennis.
- Cooking and Baking: Set your child up for the recipe to succeed! Helping out in the kitchen can get teens with ADHD to become a team player, stay on task, and build self-esteem. All you knead to do is to pick a simple recipe that your teens enjoy, the ingredients, and start collaborating!
- Photography: Photography is a fun way to spend time outdoors! Researchers discovered that directed-attention abilities increase when people stroll in nature or look at photographs of it. Hence, this will be great for inattentive-type ADHD teens to improve their focus and concentration. This allows teens to go on a walk and get some fresh air while simultaneously learning a new skill. The photographs will also serve well as keepsakes!
Conclusion
Ultimately, whatever the activity, it is important for the child to have fun. As a parent, you may have to mentally prepare for any unforeseen circumstances, such as your child’s refusal to collaborate. It can be overwhelming at times, but with effort, you will be able to see your child flourish in the most positive and rewarding way!
