Natural ways to calm a hyper child

It's summer and, of course, the best time to visit the museum, catch up with some friends, and have a swell time in the park. But there, you are concerned about your child's hyperactiveness. So you are letting that weigh you down. Well, it's not all bad to be hyper, by the way. But if you feel you can't cope with that for your child, why not consider some natural ways to calm your hyper child instead of letting it become an issue?

There is always a natural way out of things; here are three natural ways to calm a hyper child.

#1 Meet them at their level

Children have their language and would prefer to see you speak the language and come to their level. Yeah! If you want their audience you should approach them the way they want you and then make the rule.

Think about it if you were to take a photo with your favourite basketball player. You would probably feel ecstatic if they came down shoulder-to-shoulder with you. It would help if you gave them kids the same feeling. Without this, a simple 'settle down now' won’t work.

Rather, it’ll be counterproductive.

It's simple. If you have to playfully 'chase' them, catch them and let them know you win, then it's cool to do so.

The good thing is, being hyperactive, your child's active period is usually not sustained like other kids. By following the trend and catching them when noticed, you have the opportunity to build rapport with them when the energy is low.

Need Help with ADHD? Contact Dr J and Colleagues for help

#2 Provide Warnings & Time Limits

Giving your child some structure and systems can help them with little adjustments if they would usually 'break down’ when you ask to stop an activity. It tells you need to put some convenient structure for you both. Regardless of how their brain is wired, do not forget that they are still at a learning stage in their lives. So you want to add some structure to give them a guide.

One way is to give them a 5-minute warning countdown.

It goes this way: 'we've got five more minutes, so play-play-play, but know that in five minutes, we'll be settling down.' Ensure they consent to your timing, and if they need more - you can go on a bargain :). But make sure you reach an agreement. And then don't forget to remind them of the remaining time. Like 'you've got four minutes left; 'two minutes left….'. Till the last.

It would help if you use assertive words like 'last’ and ‘final’ when doing the countdown with them. You should ensure you do not compromise on the standard once you both reach an agreement. Children are avid learners, and when conditions change, you should let them know. Do not let them assume, else they take each learning as the new norm.

Time limits and warnings prepare hyperactive children for the time they need to reel in their energy and put a stop to an activity.

It is even essential if your child tends more to computer games. By providing a structure, you help them have more out of screen time. Most children's tablets nowadays have some of those features, and you should get them set up either to shut down the tablet once it’s time. Whichever works, consistency is what matters most.

#3 Teach & Practice Deep, Intentional Breathing

Becoming comfortable with breathing patterns can greatly assist. It has been proven that breathing deeply and in a controlled manner can reduce one's heart rate. It's the same for children.

Controlled breathing can not only aid in reducing heart rate; but also signifies that the child has slowed down (physically) to take a short time to pay attention to their body. Focusing on the body can redirect the child's attention inward.

If you need help with ADHD you should contact Dr J and Colleagues for help