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Activities for Kids With ADHD

Kids with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have unique needs when it comes to activities. Activities for a kid with ADHD should accommodate his short attention span and excessive amounts of energy. When you choose an activity for a child with ADHD, choose a structured activity that provide hands-on interaction with individualized instruction. Avoid certain situations and environments that cause problems for kids with ADHD.

  1. Activities with Structure

    • Activities for kids with ADHD should be structured and encourage self control. Structure helps a kid with ADHD, because it gives her a clearer idea of what to expect. She will also benefit from exercising self control and following rules and guidelines. One example of an activity that provides this type of structure is martial arts training.

    Being Hands-On

    • Activities that are hands-on will hold the attention of a kid with ADHD longer, and will help him learn about his environment without worrying about what might get broken. Gardening is a simple at-home activity that allows a kid with ADHD to work with his hands. You can also take a child with ADHD to a discovery museum, which often has exhibits that encourage child participation and hands-on exploration.

    Individualized Attention

    • A kid with ADHD benefits from individualized instruction. It is easier for her to focus, when interacting with someone on a one-on-one basis, rather than with all of the distractions that come with a group environment. In addition, individualized interactions allow the teacher or coach to create a program that suits the child's temperament and needs. Choosing swimming or tennis for an ADHD child will provide an activity that typically offers one-on-one coaching and provide an athletic outlet for her energy.

    Activities to Avoid

    • Excessive television viewing should be avoided. While the television may keep a child with ADHD quiet for long periods of time, he needs physical exertion, to release energy. Outings to distracting environments, such as a large shopping mall, are difficult for a kid with ADHD to deal with. Not only does this type of environment provide too many sensory inputs, it is also full of forbidden, but tempting, items. The combination of distraction with temptation makes it difficult for a kid with ADHD to follow rules.

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