When it comes to kids with ADHD, the phrase “stop fidgeting” can be more harmful than helpful. A recent study from the University of Central Florida reveals that children with ADHD actually learn better when they’re allowed to move around. The researchers analyzed the behaviors of 52 boys aged 8 to 12, including 29 diagnosed with ADHD, and found compelling results.
The study focused on “working memory,” the cognitive system we use to learn, reason, and understand new information. Children were tasked with organizing jumbled numbers and associating them with letters that flashed on a screen. Throughout this process, the researchers monitored their movements. Interestingly, one of the study’s authors, Dr. Julian Harris, noted that hyperactivity in ADHD children tends to surface during tasks that require executive brain functions—specifically when they’re learning.
Dr. Harris stated, “Our findings indicate that the more these kids move, the better they seem to perform. They need that movement to stay engaged.” This suggests that forcing ADHD children to remain still can actually hinder their ability to absorb information. While non-ADHD peers also moved during tasks, they didn’t perform as well as their ADHD counterparts.
Often, interventions for ADHD focus on curbing hyperactivity, but allowing kids to fidget, bounce on exercise balls, or even pedal on stationary bikes could enhance their learning experience. In today’s educational environments, where testing is prioritized, it’s crucial for educators to consider how to adapt their teaching methods to better accommodate ADHD students.
Dr. Harris emphasizes, “It’s not about letting them run wild; it’s about facilitating movement so they can maintain the alertness necessary for cognitive tasks.” This shift in perspective could significantly impact how classrooms are structured, ultimately benefiting ADHD kids.
For more insights into parenting challenges and solutions, check out this related post on Cervical Insemination. Additionally, if you’re exploring fertility options, Make A Mom offers at-home insemination syringe kits that can be quite helpful. For a wealth of information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit CCRM IVF’s blog.
In summary, encouraging movement rather than restricting it can lead to better learning outcomes for children with ADHD. By rethinking our approach, we can create more effective learning environments for these kids.
Leave a Reply