Hyperactivity – a state of excessive and uncontrolled physical activity and restlessness, making it challenging for children to focus on tasks or sit still for extended periods.
When is Hyperactivity an Issue?
While it is normal for children to be energetic and active, hyperactivity becomes a concern when it significantly impairs their ability to function in daily life. Some signs that hyperactivity may be problematic include:
- Impaired Academic Performance: Hyperactive children may struggle to concentrate on schoolwork, leading to poor academic performance.
- Difficulty in Social Settings: Excessive energy and impulsivity can make it challenging for children to interact appropriately with peers, impacting social relationships.
- Impaired Executive Functioning: Difficulty in carrying on regular day to day chores, getting easily distracted and requiring parental intervention constantly to complete even simple routines.
- Disruption at Home: Hyperactivity may result in disruptive behavior at home, affecting family dynamics and causing stress for parents and siblings.
- Safety Concerns: Impulsivity and lack of focus can increase the risk of accidents or injuries.
Hence being active is not an issue, only if it is impacting the child or others around them, then it becomes an issue.
Causes of Hyperactivity:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder – ADHDIt is a behavioral condition characterized by excessive movement, impulsivity, and a difficulty in sustaining attention. Children with hyperactivity may display restlessness, fidgeting, constant talking, and an inability to stay seated, which can interfere with their daily activities and academic performance.
- Hyperthyroidism – Metabolic disorder. Can be easily checked by checking for thyroid function(blood test)
- Neurodevelopment disorders – like Autism Spectrum Disorder or Intellectual Disability, where children have sensory issues that makes them be hyperactive.
- Behaviours – certain parenting styles also lead to child being hyperactive, not listening to parents and being disruptive.
General Measures to Deal with Hyperactivity in Children:
- Structured Routine: Establishing a consistent and structured daily routine can help children with hyperactivity feel more secure and organized.
- Regular Exercise: Encouraging physical activity helps children release excess energy in a controlled manner, promoting better focus and concentration. It is recommended by WHO for children to have atleast 60min of moderate to vigorous intensity physical exercise everyday.
- Balanced Diet: Ensure that the child’s diet includes a variety of nutritious foods – a well-balanced wholesome diet. Avoiding excessive sugar and caffeine intake may also help manage hyperactivity.
- Adequate Sleep: Establishing good sleep hygiene is crucial for children with hyperactivity. Ensure they get enough sleep to support overall well-being and development.
- Behavioral Therapy: When home based remedies is not sufficient then behavioral interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or applied behavior analysis, can be effective in managing hyperactivity and teaching children coping strategies.
- Parental Support and Education: Providing support and education for parents can empower them to understand and manage their child’s hyperactivity more effectively.
- Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: If hyperactivity significantly impairs a child’s functioning, consulting with healthcare professionals, such as developmental paediatricians or child psychologists, is important. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend specific interventions based on diagnosis, which may include medication in severe cases.
In summary, Hyperactivity in children is a complex issue with various contributing factors. By understanding the causes and implementing general measures, parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in supporting children with hyperactivity and helping them lead fulfilling lives. Hence, it is important to seek advice from healthcare professionals in understanding the cause, who can do observations assessments and tests as necessary and guide you in providing the right care. Seeking help at the right time is also crucial – Right time, Right diagnosis, Right management.
Dr Gowri Ravi Chinthalapalli
Consultant Child Development
Aster Neukids Department