Hyperactivity in Children and Discipline
Wednesday, April 8th, 2009
Oftentimes, it can be difficult distinguishing hyperactivity in children and normal active behavior. Is the child who is darting around the house and never stopping a hyperactive child, or just a normal child?
To differentiate between the two, one must understand that it is the quality and quantity of the movements of the child that define what is hyperactivity in children and what is normal active behavior. When observing the child, are the movements of the child purposeful or random? Hyperactive children tend to be restless, fidget a great deal, run into things, over objects and/or people, and climb up anything they can. The hyperactive child just never seems to stop and appears they are moving strictly to move and let loose.
As a parent of a hyperactive child, this can be utterly exhausting! You’ll find you are chasing your child in order to save your home or to save your child from injury. As a parent, you want to help your hyperactive child direct their energy in constructive ways and at appropriate times. It certainly can be a challenge to parent hyperactive children but there are some methods that can help you and your child in the journey. Below are some tips that can help you as you work on disciplining your hyperactive child.
Hyperactivity in Children 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.
Hyperactivity in Children Tip #2: Structure
Hyperactive children require structure in their environment. Make sure to stick to a schedule and provide boundaries for your child.
Hyperactivity in Children 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.
Hyperactivity in Children Tip #4: Body Awareness
Teaching your child to be aware of their body and their space will help them to not impose on anothers space or person.
Hyperactivity in Children 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.
Hyperactivity in Children Tip #6: Supervision
Hyperactive children require a great deal of parental supervision and connectedness. A great deal 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 spending time together.
