Preschoolers are typically energetic and restless in nature. A child's behaviors change rapidly as she grows and begins to understand rules and consequences. However, hyperactivity makes it difficult for your child to focus her attention, understand instructions and control her level of activity. Because this behavior is disruptive for your child and everyone around her, it is imperative to understand how to deal with it.
Step 1
Structure your child's schedule and activities to help limit hyperactivity and confusion. Set expectations, rules and organization so that your child understands what to expect and understands how you want him to behave. For example, tell him beforehand that he must always hold your hand when you go into a parking lot.
Step 2
Reduce any distractions and over stimulation. For example, keep your child's room clean and put toys away in a closet, especially if it is time to concentrate on a specific activity.
Step 3
Observe your preschooler closely and learn to recognize signs that she is becoming over-stimulated or agitated, which can trigger hyperactivity. Try to calm her down immediately upon recognizing these signs by removing her from the situation or reminding her of your expectations.
Step 4
Reward your preschooler when he behaves appropriately rather than punishing him for any hyperactivity. This will encourage him to continue behaving in a calm manner. For example, give him a gold star sticker or an extra story at bedtime when he gets in his pajamas like you asked.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure that your child gets plenty of rest -- at least 10 to 12 hours of sleep every night. The BabyCenter website notes that hyperactivity can worsen if your child is irritable and grouchy from lack of sleep.
- Talk to your child's doctor or a counselor if your preschooler's hyperactive behavior worsens or does not respond to home treatment. Professional counselors can spend one-on-one time with you and your preschooler to help modify her hyperactive behavior.
Things You'll Need
- Rewards, like gold star stickers
References
- BabyCenter; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Signs and Symptoms; May 2006
- FamilyEducation; Dealing with Hyperactive/Impulsive Behavior; Sandra F. Rief
- BabyCenter; How Can I Keep My Hyperactive Preschooler from Running Wild?; Meg Zweiback
- KidsHealth; Sleep and Your Preschooler; August 2008
