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Why Fidgeting Can Be Helpful
Brain scans have shown that the brains of children with ADHD are under-stimulated and critical neurotransmitters required for processing are under represented. Therefore, our kids use their own built-in system to increase stimulation, and therefore, increase focus and attention. This also explains why "boring" tasks present so much difficulty.We Can See the Behavior
Fidgeting. Drumming fingers. Tapping pencils. Humming. Singing. Squirming. Bouncing legs. Twirling hair. Chewing on pen caps, sweatshirt tassles or lips. Rocking on chair legs. Doodling. Constant movement.
Annoying? Often. Wrong? No. Necessary? Absolutely.
The truth is this: fidgeting is a natural, healthy way for our kids to stimulate themselves to increase focus. As a parent, you have boundless opportunities to work with your child's nature to make school work time much less stressful and more productive.
Doʼs And Donʼts
DO NOT punish children for doodling, moving, fidgeting, chewing or humming while doing homework. In fact, you should ENCOURAGE this.
The truth is that our kids learn much better when they are moving. Science has shown that multi-sensory stimulation improves attention and retention. That's why our kids often listen better when they are playing with something in their hands. Believe it or not, some kids focus better with music or the tv on in the background (we don't recommend the tv, but it does work for some kids). So during homework time, don't make your kids just sit at the table.
Let your kids stand, pace, walk and move around. Let them chew on carrots or a snack. Chewing is an excellent way to stimulate the brain and relieve anxiety (that's why your kids chew on stuff all the time!). Let them listen to their iPod or music. Let them fidget with a stress ball or LEGOS. Light scented candles or cook food with pleasant aromas to stimulate olfactory senses. Talk about lessons while playing catch, kicking a ball or bouncing on a trampoline. Make a fort under the table and let them do homework in interesting places. Do homework outside, in a coffee shop or by a stream.
Fidgeting and stimulation can be very healthy. So work with your child, not against his nature. We'll address more homework and school issues in future newsletters.
Observe your kids and get to know what makes them tick. Then instead of punishing them for misunderstood behavior, you and your child's teachers will be able to work with their gifts to achieve success.