|  | Family Health | Childrens Health

Exercises for Children with ADHD

Regular exercise for children with ADHD increases blood flow to the brain, improves self-esteem and reduces anxiety and nervousness. Exercise for children with ADHD also aids in the release of endorphins, which promote feelings of calmness, and improves your child's overall well-being. Regular exercise and activities are also thought to help children with ADHD by reducing stress levels and reducing hyperactivity.

  1. Getting Physical

    • Help your child discover their physical talents. Your child will find increased self-esteem and remain interested in sports and activities that they not only enjoy but are talented at as well. Create a chart to list goals such as running a mile within a certain time limit or getting a certain amount of points in a basketball game and reward your child's efforts.

      Determine your child's activity personality and encourage him to participate in exercises and activities according to his interests. Many children with ADHD prefer to play alone, while others thrive on interaction with other children. Children who would rather be alone may benefit from exercises such as running or jogging, raking leaves in the yard or riding their bike. Children who would rather play with others will thrive by participating in team sports such as baseball, basketball, football or hockey. Dance classes are a great option for girls who are not interested in playing sports but enjoy social interaction with others.

      Scientists are exploring the benefits of "green space" on human beings, also known as spending time outdoors in nature. Children who have ADHD conditions can benefit from "green space" and exercising and participating in activities outdoors such as riding bikes, hiking, walking and jogging.

    Benefits of Exercise

    • Around 18 percent of children with ADHD also suffer from depression and low self-esteem, and an average of 25 percent suffer from anxiety. Exercising daily improves and prevents depression, low-self esteem and anxiety symptoms. Children with ADHD often need to wind down after a day of school and classroom confinement. Parents are often frustrated by hyperactive outbursts that are a result of built-up energy. Allowing your child to play outside, help with daily chores and participate in after-school sports will decrease hyperactivity and restlessness.

    Positive Reinforcement

    • Setting up daily routines for waking up, eating, doing homework and exercising are vital to the success of children with ADHD. Use daily encouragement and praise for all exercises completed by your child. Parents should always offer positive reinforcement to their children and constantly be on the lookout for positive behavior. Instead of reprimanding your child for what she may not have done correctly, praise her for all positive behavior, including exercising and participating in activities such as sports and chores.

Childrens Health - Related Articles