Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) develops in children at an early age, typically between 3 and 5 years old. A child with this condition experiences a dysfunction in certain brain functions, which negatively affects concentration and the ability to process and comprehend incoming information. As a result, the child exhibits excessive physical activity and hyperactive behavior.
In many cases, these behaviors may be impulsive and aggressive, potentially exposing the child to physical and psychological harm, as well as causing harm to those around them. In addition, the child’s academic performance may decline, leading to significant concern and distress for parents. However, there is no need for worry, as therapists at Ihtiwaa Center, one of the leading specialized centers in psychological and behavioral rehabilitation for children, use carefully designed ADHD-focused children’s games to help reduce the symptoms of this disorder and enhance children’s concentration and attention abilities.
Six Suitable Games for Children with Hyperactivity (ADHD)
Ihtiwaa Medical Center relies on a variety of games when working with children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These games contribute to improving concentration and gradually restoring balanced, natural movement. The center recommends specific games due to their significant role in releasing a child’s excess energy, including the following:
Ice Cool Game
The Ice Cool game, also known as the cold ice game, is highly recommended as children easily engage with it. The game requires a high level of focus and strategic planning to chase the fish, which helps gradually reduce the severity of hyperactivity symptoms in children.
Animal Upon Animal Game
Animal Upon Animal is a popular game among many children due to its simple and non-complicated rules. It is recommended for children with hyperactivity, as it helps enhance concentration while also providing enjoyment and happiness.
The Magic Labyrinth Game
Known as The Magic Labyrinth, this game is considered one of the most effective activities for releasing a child’s energy. The child must search for lost items inside the maze in order to win, which significantly strengthens memory and develops creative thinking and planning skills.
CATAN Junior Game
Ihtiwaa Center recommends the CATAN Junior game, as it is well suited for hyperactive children between the ages of 4 and 10. There is also a version designed for adolescents with ADHD. This game helps enhance creative and intellectual abilities while bringing joy and entertainment.
Chess Game
The well-known chess game is considered one of the best games for children with hyperactivity. It is recommended because it develops logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Chess requires the child to plan strategically to protect the king and avoid threats from the opponent, which greatly enhances focus and positively reflects on overall concentration and motor balance.
Modeling Clay (Playdough)
Ihtiwaa Center emphasizes the importance of using modeling clay for children with excessive movement. It plays a major role in releasing stored energy and helps develop imagination, as the child is required to create multiple shapes. This activity significantly contributes to improving concentration and gradually restoring natural movement.
Activities for Children with Hyperactivity
Games and sports activities serve as supportive therapeutic methods for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They contribute to improving concentration and motivation, while also helping to correct and modify behavioral patterns. These activities include the following:
Sports Activities and Their Importance
Swimming
Swimming is considered one of the most suitable sports for hyperactive children, as it helps release excess energy, leading to better motor balance. It also contributes to a gradual and partial reduction in reliance on medication.
Tennis
Parents often prefer involving children in individual sports such as tennis rather than team sports, as individual activities provide focused attention on the child and help minimize distractions. Tennis, in particular, supports the development of mental skills, enhances individual abilities, and builds self-confidence.
Karate
Karate plays a significant role in correcting the behavior of hyperactive children. It teaches precise control of movements and adherence to rules, while also fostering patience and self-confidence.
Walking
It is important for children with ADHD to take a daily walk for at least 15 minutes. Preferably, walking should take place early in the day and in a green, natural environment to promote calmness, refreshment, and improved mental clarity.
Yoga
Yoga exercises play a major role in reducing feelings of anxiety and tension in children by increasing dopamine levels, which promote a sense of happiness and help prevent depression. Yoga has also proven effective in enhancing concentration and improving the child’s ability to comprehend and process spoken information.
