All kids are hyperactive sometimes, but when a child's level of activity becomes a problem in school or hinders his ability to make friends, then it could signal a more serious problem or disorder. True hyperactivity can make life difficult for children, parents and siblings, but it can be treated.
Hyperactivity
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), hyperactivity is defined as "a state of too much muscle activity," with behaviors that can include constant activity, being easily distracted, impulsiveness, inability to concentrate and aggressiveness. Hyperactive kids often fidget, pace or wander around the room, talk a lot and have difficulty participating in quiet activities. It's difficult to label a child as hyperactive because it depends on the tolerance of the observer. Behavior that seems excessive to one doctor, teacher or parent may not seem excessive to another.
Effects on the Child
Many hyperactive kids develop normally and can adapt to social and academic situations easily. But for some, hyperactive behavior can make a child a target for bullies or make it harder to connect with other kids, which can lead to low self-esteem and depression. Some kids who are more active find schoolwork difficult and often find themselves being punished. Luckily, hyperactivity in most children wanes as they get older.
Causes of Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity can be a symptom of a more serious disorder, called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. According to the NIH, hyperactivity can also be caused by disorders of the brain or central nervous system or emotional disorders, as well as hyperthyroidism. The National Resource Center on ADHD writes that poor parenting is not a cause of hyperactivity or ADHD, but that genetic factors account for most diagnoses. Other things that do not lead to hyperactivity are environmental toxins, allergic reactions to foods, high sugar consumption or family problems.
ADHD
ADHD is a mental disorder that affects more than six percent of school-age children, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Kids with ADHD are not only hyperactive, but also extremely impulsive, inattentive, disorganized and easily overstimulated. Some kids can be diagnosed with a form of ADHD that involves hyperactive and impulsive behavior, but they can pay attention.
What To Do At Home
The NIH reports that very active children usually respond well to specific directions, regular physical activity, and predictable schedules and routines. A child with hyperactivity disorder, however, has a hard time following directions and controlling impulses, so more intervention is needed from doctors and school staff. The Mayo Clinic recommends the following steps to help ease your little one's hyperactive symptoms at home:
Focus on the positive instead of always correcting or punishing. Show your child lots of attention to keep her from acting out.
Be patient and calm, especially if your child is out of control, because this can help her calm down.
Stick to a regular schedule and use a calendar to mark upcoming events.
Make sure your child gets plenty of rest, since fatigue can actually make symptoms worse.
Avoid situations that are difficult for your child--for example, crowded places and long waits.
Use consistent discipline.
Use simple, clear instructions and demonstrate how you want your child to behave.
When To Contact Your Doctor
Lots of kids seem to be bouncing off the walls sometimes, but there are clear ways to tell if your child truly has a disorder. According to the NIH, you should consult your pediatrician if your child seems persistently hyperactive day after day, is overly aggressive, impulsive or has difficulty concentrating, or if his level of activity causes social difficulties or academic problems. Your doctor will then review your child's medical history, perform some tests and request written questionnaires from parents, other caregivers and teachers about his behavior. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, it can usually be treated with a combination of changes at home, therapy and medication.
