Learn about the methods of treating hyperactivity in children at Al-Ehtiwaa Medical Center in Riyadh. We also provide treatment for attention deficit in children, explain the signs of hyperactivity, and highlight the most effective ways to deal with affected children and improve their concentration, academic performance, and social skills.
Signs of Hyperactivity in Children
It is often difficult for parents to determine whether their child’s behaviour is normal like other children, or whether it stems from a disorder in brain function, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Therefore, below we outline the most important symptoms of hyperactivity and attention deficit in children, to help parents respond quickly to any signs that may appear in their children:
Noticeable excessive movement and activity.
Inattention and lack of focus on the person speaking to them, as well as poor concentration when carrying out tasks.
Impulsivity and reckless behavior.
Difficulty being patient and waiting for their turn to speak or their turn in line.
Poor academic performance; the child shows little interest in studying and struggles to understand what the teacher explains due to severe lack of concentration.
Not listening properly to the person addressing them, which is due to poor attention rather than any problem with hearing.
Insomnia and poor-quality sleep.
Methods of Treating Hyperactivity in Children
The family of a child with attention deficit needs to understand the nature of the disorder and the special approach it requires. The main ways of dealing with a child with attention deficit include:
1. Providing a Suitable Environment
Give the child an environment that supports focus, without pressuring them to change multiple behaviors all at once. Changes should be introduced gradually so the child does not feel bored or resistant.
2. Positive Reinforcement
It is important for the family to offer the child psychological and emotional support from time to time, encouraging them to adopt specific behaviors and rewarding them with gifts or privileges. This helps the child gradually abandon unwanted behaviors.
3. Attention and Emotional Support
The child must feel their family’s care and appreciation. Showing love and affection helps the child respond better to guidance, which in turn improves their psychological and social state alongside medication and behavioral therapy. The family should avoid constant blame or physical punishment so the child does not lose self-confidence, which would make recovery more difficult.
4. Daily Routine
It is essential to organize the child’s daily life, setting clear times for sleep, meals, play, study, and sports. Their day should not be chaotic or pass without meaningful benefit.
5. Healthy Diet
A child with ADHD needs a healthy diet that is suitable for their neurological condition. They should eat foods rich in vitamins, proteins, and natural fibers, while avoiding as much as possible fast food, which may worsen the severity of symptoms.
6. Recreation
A child with hyperactivity and attention deficit should have enough time each day for recreation, during which they can practice their favorite hobbies and skills in a suitable environment, away from distractions that might draw their attention.
7. Physical Activity
Engaging the child in sports is one of the most important methods that can help them recover more quickly. Individual sports such as swimming, tennis, karate, and archery are recommended, as the child needs special and focused attention, unlike team sports where attention is divided among all team members.
It is also advisable for the child to walk or run daily in the early part of the day, for at least 15 minutes, to help them gain calmness and the energy needed to complete their day.
8. Following the Treating Physician’s Instructions
The child’s family must adhere to the instructions given by the treating physician regarding appropriate ways of dealing with the child, administering medications at the prescribed times, and ensuring the child attends therapy sessions on schedule.
