List of Good Activities for Children with Hyperactivity

By Connor Sullivan

David was the type of student who was known for having a great deal of energy. On many occasions, his high energy level made it difficult for him to focus on things that required him to sit still or to be calm. He was only in first grade but was already experiencing struggles at school. His teacher suggested that this was related to his having an abundance of energy. David was lucky to have parents who were willing to find ways for him to release his energy. They consulted with his teachers and with a child psychologist who evaluated the energy level of David. Suggestions for controlling high energy were made by both teachers and the psychologist. Some of the suggestions involved reordering home life to include meaningful work for David, as well as age appropriate mental and physical tasks to keep him busy. His parents began utilizing a behavioral chart where they kept track of all the ways David helped and followed directions throughout the week. One of the biggest changes they made was to enroll David in a structured activity which would help him learn to control and release some of his energy. Mom and Dad took David to shop for karate uniforms as this was the activity they all three chose for him. Finding the right karate gi jacket and pants was easy and fun. Soon David enjoyed finding success through participating in this martial art. If you have a child who exhibits traits of those who have a high energy level the following activities are often recommended as good choices for energy release.

1. Tae Kwon Do is a really great activity for the child who struggles with high energy levels or focus issues. The art of Tae Kwon Do teaches body control and discipline and it is an excellent activity for a child trying to learn to control both mind and body.

2. Swimming is a very popular choice for children who are looking to get rid of some extra energy. The sport of swimming works the muscles hard but in a very safe and low impact environment. Children do not have to worry about injury to joints, muscles, or bones and learning to swim safely as a child is extremely beneficial later in life. Many children also experience a calming sensation from being immersed in water.

3. Involvement in gymnastics can assist a high energy young person in getting the exercise he or she needs. Participation in gymnastics teaches kids how to control body movements and offers a disciplined and structured environment.

4. Long distance running is a great choice for children looking to find a physical activity that is challenging. Distance running, although not necessarily for the young child, teaches endurance, perseverance, and patience.

5. Participation in dance class can be a perfect choice of activity for the child with a high energy level. Particularly for the child who is not interested in sporting activities, music and movement offer a wonderful outlet for energy. The impact of music is also often very profound for a child looking for outlets for a high energy level. - 31497

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