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Meeting hyperactivity’s challenges



The key is knowledge, empathy, and extra care to connect with your special child

hyperactivity, children, empathy, connecting

Hyperactive or ADHD, most teachers and many parents understand the challenges presented by the spectrum of personality types our kids carry within them. For years we used outside help and often medication to deal with such situation. But there are simpler ways of coping as one works to greater points of understanding.

Dr. Pallavi Aravind Joshi has written in Indian Express about a condition he has seen in adults, as well as children, noting that things can get out of control with instances of aggression, violent behavior, mood swings, irritation and even frustration and depression.

“With help and through correcting their behavior from the very first day, it can bring some change in their condition.” Dr. Joshi suggests this idea for kids exhibiting both hyperactive tendencies and diagnosed ADHD.

His tips?

1. Converse with your child often. Ask them their opinions. Make them feel important. Give them the confidence that even they can make right decisions at the right time.

2. Don’t push your child to multi-task: teach them one thing at a time. Too many instructions at one time can confuse and lead them to unwanted reactions.

3. Instead of discipline, demonstrate love and warmth.

4. Set target goals: Build a list of things you want your child to do that involves activities and behavior; things you want to build for them. Make them realize the importance of having a steady plan.

5. Reduce the clutter: Clearing unwanted stuff in your child’s room helps them focus better, by reducing distractions.

6. Use exercise, dance, sports and other activities to channel negative energy, anxiety and help your child have the means to calm down when needed.

Learn about ADHD so you become familiar with the ins and outs of the condition. The better you understand their condition the more you will be able to deal with them in the right way. And explain the condition to your child so they can understand their own challenges. Let them know you’re there for them. And seek professional help… medications do help.

With proper guidance and medical help, Dr. Joshi concludes, children with ADHD can turn out be as regular as other children as they grow into adulthood.




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