Do you often find yourself wondering why your child has more energy than a squirrel on espresso? Well, fear not fellow parent because in this article we'll explore the root of your child's non-stop movement and possibly even help mitigate it (fingers crossed). Strap in, grab some coffee or wine depending on the time of day and let's dive right in!
It's All In The Genes
First things first, if you're a hyperactive adult then there is a good chance that your child might have inherited those genes. Research suggests that ADHD may be passed down from generation to generation (1). So before you start blaming sugary snacks or lack of sleep for causing all the chaos, take a look at yourself- just don't get caught up comparing who was worse.
Not Just ADHD
It’s not just Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) genes that could cause your little ballerina to bounce off walls like she were an acrobat! Any particular gene combination can lead to what most describe as “a high-strung” baby/toddler/child/preteen which basically means they've got more bounces per step than other kids.
Sleep Is Key!
As simple as it sounds but getting proper rest could make a significant difference. A study conducted at Boston College found out that kids aged three years old with poor sleeping habits are highly likely to showcase signs of being extremely active during their waking hours (2).
Bedtime Tussles
Bedtime struggles happen even to seasoned parents but what if we’ve been doing it wrong all along? Have patience while reading ahead - You’ll thank us later. Avoid trying too hard! Yep! That’s right...avoid struggling over putting them back into bed; rather focus on making bedtime routine peaceful and engaging by reading bedtime stories, singing lullabies or even playing soft music.
P.S
Put away the monster mash up music playlist before bed it’s not helping your little one.
The A Word: Anxiety
It is believed that anxiety could be an underlying reason behind a child being hyperactive (3). Sounds unbelievable right? But think about it, if your kid is struggling with tasks or overwhelmed by something challenging at school, this may cause them to act out and keep moving because they struggle with sitting still in their discomfort.
High-Functioning Kid = Hyper Child
Doesn’t make sense right? It will soon! Children who are highly functioning tend to have overactive minds which reflects on restlessness in their daily routine. They usually have a high intellect which causes them to explore and analyze everything around them - this can show through constantly shifting from activity to activity without ever really completing one fully.
Waving Sugar Goodbye Is A Myth.
Now now let's not get too excited just yet we do know kids love sour patch candies but the idea of sugar rush being responsible for all things hyeractivity has been mostly debunked (4) . However Consuming excessive amounts of processed/ junk food containing preservatives may lead to eczema, acne, constipation— all of these small health issues will then affect their behavior so try steering clear of processed options as much as possible. This doesn't mean you should cut off delicious ice cream treats altogether though!
An Active Brain Needs Exercise Too
Just like every other part of our body- brains also need attention and exercise ( yes i said 2 e words there!).
Playtime Rules!
Exercise should never feel forced onto children especially young ones; find games and outdoor activities where they move along while having fun such as jumping rope , swimming , bike rides etc.. you’d be surprised how much energy a game of tag could burn off.
A Word About Screen Time
We know screens are a perfect way to distract and an easy option when you're trying to get some work done uninterrupted but not necessarily the best thing for hyperactive kids - so try limiting screen time in order not to increase overexcitement. Maybe plan indoor activities such as coloring, puzzles or even encourage imaginative play (pillow forts/pirate adventures) without the distraction of electronic devices.
Don't Fear The Duration
There isn’t really much clarity on how many hours should be “allowed” although it's suggested that an hour or less is acceptable for young children aged between two and five years old (6). Nightmare-inducing visions of your child bouncing off their room walls till sunrise? Let us ease your worries: Individualized restriction is always important based on age group and proper sleep timings. After all moderation may just hold sanity together...
Are You In It Together?
Raising children requires teamwork! If both parents apply consistent rules about discipline specifically few rewards-based incentives for being respectful, meeting daily goals/chores etc..It will go a long way. Rewarding good behaviour tends to incentivize better decision making thus helping calm down those chaotic moments - giving something fun like movie night does make a huge impact.
Bear With Them!
Your little bundle cannot control their physical reactions especially when they have excess energy- On one particularly hectic day don’t lose plenty patience—keep them engaged through mindful conversation & alert listening with creative reasoning - this helps bond deeper while settling any inner disruptions brought from external challenges.
When To Worry:
If hyperactivity continues unabated regardless medical attention might be necessary; consult pediatrician /child specialist instead of taking drastic measure/treatment before assessment.Different types/forms of treatment may depend upon individual diagnosis; medication or counseling among other things can help regulate ADHD symptoms if required (7).
Concluding Note
We know...hyperactivity can be maddening especially when your child wants to sprint like they're Usain Bolt through every park - take it one step at a time, breathe and celebrate even small victories- It will be okay!
References: (1) "ADHD tends to run in families." ADDitude magazine website. (https://www.additudemag.com/is-adhd-genetic/) (2)The National Sleep Foundation. (http://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-news/study-school-aged-kids-getting-less-sleep-ever) (3) Monastra,V.J.,Lubar,J.F.and Linden,M.(2001)‘The development of a quantitative electroencephalographic scanning process for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder: reliability and validity studies’, Neuropsychology, vol 15,no 34, pp.136–144. (4) The myth of the Sugar Rush https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320934#myths-and-misconceptions-about-sugar-rushes (5) Encouraging Exercise Helps ADHD Kids With Focus And Attention : Shots - Health News : NPR (https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2014/08/18/340631346/exercising-the-brain-helps-adhd-kids-focus-stop-fidgeting) ```