About 5.4 million children in the United States are diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, according to a November 2010 study by the Center for Disease Control. Of these, 2.7 million take medication. Many of these prescriptions have severe side effects. As a result, therapies such as yoga and meditation are becoming increasingly popular as alternative or complementary treatment for ADHD. Yoga can help improve focus, self-awareness and self-confidence in kids diagnosed with ADHD.
Step 1
Talk to your child about yoga as an alternative therapy. She might be excited to give it a try, but she might also be nervous or upset about being pushed into something new. Take things slowly when suggesting the idea. For your child to reap the full benefit of yoga, you need to have an internal desire to learn and change.
Step 2
Suggest a one-on-one session. This type of session will eliminate many these distractions and ensure your kid is getting the attention he needs.
Step 3
Choose a class that's right for your kid. Many yoga studios offer classes for kids. In fact, some organizations offer yoga workshops for kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD. Organizations like Yoga Calm and Radiant Child Yoga offer workshops and classes for kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD.
Step 4
Stay positive and offer encouragement. The rate at which your kid progresses and the benefit she receives will be her own, not yours.
Tips and Warnings
- If your child is in their teens, consider letting her choose the yoga studio she wants to attend. If your child is younger, see if you can find a yoga studio where you can observe and stay close during the practice. Remember that yoga doesn't have to be expensive. Many studios offer discounts or donation-based classes.
- When yoga is practiced incorrectly, it can lead to injury. Make sure your child knows to take her practice seriously.
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