Children are naturally very active small people, and each child exhibits a different level of energy unique to him or her. However, when an energetic child has the potential to injury himself or others on a continual basis because of overly active behavior, it might be time to talk with a pediatrician or psychologist.
Is it ADHD (Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder)?
Hyperactive children may exhibit many or all of these types of behavior over a long period of time:
- Fidget and squirm in seats constantly
- Talk continuously
- Dash around playing with anything and everything
- Won’t sit still in one place during school, dinner or story time
- Move around constantly
- Unable to do quiet tasks or activities
According to Dr. A. Clark, a pediatrician on JustAnswer, a parent shouldn’t start down the ADHD diagnosis road until a child is school age. That’s because toddlers, preschoolers, and even kindergarteners naturally exhibit behavior (A.K.A temper tantrums) that might look and sound like what we think of as ADHD. Tantrums and active behavior are developmentally appropriate for this age group. In fact, neuroscientist Richard Saul’s forthcoming book, “ADHD Does Not Exist: The Truth about Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder” (HarperWave), argues that indeed ADHD is a misdiagnosis in any age group.
But if you parent a hyperactive child, and you’re overwhelmed by the behavior, you might be looking for an explanation, or more importantly, some help.
What are the options?
If you suspect your child might have ADHD, or if you’re overwhelmed by a child who is constantly moving and talking, it’s important to talk with a good pediatrician or psychologist. Find a Expert who can recommend certain behavior therapies, or help you map out daily routines, as hyperactive children usually respond well to structured environments.
If needed, some can offer herbal remedies such as Restin capsules that contain valerian powder, or other natural remedies such as FOCUS or ATTEND. Other herbs that help calm and focus your child are Gingko Biloba, Scuttelaria, German Chamomile, Gotu Kola, Avena Sativa, Rooibos, Lemon Balm, Valerian, Lobelia and Hawthorn.
When dealing with younger children (5 and under), doctors a wary of prescribing medication, and in many cases, will only prescribe medication such as Clonidine, stimulants, and anti-depressants to older children only after other remedies and behavior therapies have not worked. Many people believe children should not be treated for ADHD with medication because they believe the side effects of the medications are worse than the positive effects. However, medication, if given in lower doses, can help. If deciding to administer medication, most doctors would suggest a combination of drugs as well as behavior therapy to treat ADHD.
Children and ADHD is a complicated and personal issue. If you have concerns about your own child, you can talk with a pediatrician now.
