It is crucial to contextualize and understand the complexity of this disorder that affects a significant number of children around the world. ADHD is a neurobiological developmental disorder that manifests in childhood and is characterized by persistent difficulties in attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

Children with ADHD often face challenges in academic, social, and family environments, which can have a significant impact on their personal and academic development. This disorder can affect a child's ability to concentrate, follow instructions, complete tasks, and regulate behavior, which in turn can lead to frustration for both the child and their caregivers and educators.

It is essential to understand that ADHD is a complex, multi-faceted disorder, and its impact can vary widely from child to child. Early detection and appropriate intervention are critical to helping these children overcome the challenges associated with ADHD and reach their full potential. In this exploration of ADHD in children, we will address key aspects of this disorder, including symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and support strategies both in academic settings and at home.

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental neuropsychiatric disorder that affects children and often persists into adolescence and adulthood. It is characterized by three main symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. These symptoms can manifest in different ways and to varying degrees in each individual, making ADHD a heterogeneous disorder.

Signs of children with ADHD

Inattention

Children with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention to details, make careless mistakes on homework or other activities, have difficulty organizing tasks and activities, and be easily distracted by external stimuli.

Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity manifests itself through excess motor activity. Children with ADHD may be unable to sit still in situations where they are expected to sit still, such as in the classroom or at dinner. They may also talk excessively and have difficulty playing or participating in activities calmly.

Impulsivity

Impulsivity in ADHD refers to difficulty containing impulsive responses. This can manifest itself in interrupting others, having difficulty waiting your turn, making hasty decisions without thinking about the consequences, among other impulsive behaviors.

It is important to note that ADHD is not simply due to a lack of discipline or parenting problems. It is a neuropsychiatric disorder with biological and genetic bases. Proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include behavioral therapy and in some cases medications, are essential to helping children and adults with ADHD manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Importance of play in children with ADHD

Play plays a crucial role in the development of all children, and its importance is even more prominent in the case of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Below we explore some of the reasons why play is essential for these children:

Social and Emotional Development

Play provides opportunities for children with ADHD to practice social and emotional intelligence in children skills. Through play, they can learn to share, take turns, resolve conflicts, and understand their own and other people's emotions. There are many children who suffer from secure attachment in children parents and find it difficult to socialize with others, but these games give them the necessary tools to understand whoever wants to be close to them.

Motor Skill Development

Many games involve physical movement, which is beneficial for children with ADHD, as they may have difficulty staying still. Active play contributes to the development of fine and gross fine motor skills in children, promoting coordination and balance.

Improved Attention and Concentration

Although it may seem paradoxical, structured play can help improve attention and concentration in children with ADHD. Games that require following rules, staying focused on a specific task, and completing objectives can be beneficial in developing these skills.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction

Play is a natural way to release energy and reduce stress. For children with ADHD, who often experience higher levels of stress and anxiety, play provides a healthy escape and helps them relax.

Cognitive Stimulation

Games can be designed to challenge and stimulate the mind. Puzzle games, board games, and problem-solving activities can help improve executive and cognitive functions in children with ADHD. 

Read about the language stimulation in children

Promoting Creativity

Free play encourages creativity and imagination. It provides children with the opportunity to express themselves in unique ways, which can be especially beneficial for those with ADHD who often have creative and active minds.

Games to improve concentration for children with ADHD

There are numerous games and activities designed specifically to help improve concentration in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These games are typically structured, goal-focused, and offer a mix of fun and challenge. Here are some ideas:

Memory games

Memorama

Use cards with pictures or numbers and ask them to find the matches.

Simon Says

This classic game involves following verbal instructions, which can help improve listening and concentration. 

Visual Attention Games

Search and Find

You can create lists of items to search in an image or a room. You can also hide objects to search for, such as  sunglasses for children and baby sunglasses from Kiddus.

Mazes and Crosswords

These visual challenges can be entertaining and at the same time require concentration.

Puzzle Games

Large Piece Puzzles

Choose puzzles with large pieces that are manageable and appropriate for the child's age.

Tetris

Playing Tetris can improve planning ability and visual attention.

Building games

LEGO or Building Blocks

Stimulate creativity and concentration by following instructions to build.

Assembly Games

Putting together models or toys that require following a set of instructions.

Card games

Memory

 The classic card matching game that stimulates memory and concentration.

ONE

Requires following rules and paying attention to game changes.

Controlled Movement Games

Balance Games

Such as walking on a line or balancing on one leg, which can improve concentration.

Jumping Games

Jumping rope or doing coordinated jumps can help release energy and improve focus.

Strategy games

Chess or Checkers

These games require planning and attention, encouraging strategic thinking.

Connect Four (Four in a Row)

Strategic game that also works on concentration.

Games to control the release of energy

Controlling and channeling the energy of children, especially those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is essential to help them stay focused and manage their impulsivity. Here are some ideas for games and activities that can be useful to release energy in a controlled way:

Outdoor games

Obstacle Course

Design a course with simple obstacles that involve running, jumping and crawling.

Scavenger Hunt

Host a scavenger hunt in your backyard or a nearby park.

Jumping Games

Trampoline

Jumping on a trampoline is an excellent way to release energy in a controlled way.

Numbered Jumping Game

Place numbers on the floor and ask the child to jump from one number to another in a sequence.

Sports and Ball Games

Soccer or Basketball

Participate in sports that involve running and active movement.

Wall Ball Games

Games like "wall" or "bouncing" with a ball can be fun and energizing.

Race games

Sack Races

Host sack races to promote friendly competition and exercise.

Speed Races

Marking start and end points, perform speed races.

Simulation games

Animal Simulation

Imitate the movement of different animals, such as running like a lion or jumping like a kangaroo.

Space Travel

Pretend to be astronauts, jump from one "planet" to another.

Dance Games

Dance Party

Host a dance party with energetic music to get kids moving and having fun.

Simon Baila

A twist on "Simon Says", but focused on dance moves.

Yoga Games for Kids

Animal Yoga

Combine yoga poses with animal movements to maintain physical activity and concentration. Try relaxation techniques for kids

Yoga Stories

Follow a story where each part includes a yoga posture.

Games to develop social skills in children with ADHD

Developing social skills in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is essential to improve their interaction with others and foster positive relationships. Here are some games and activities that can help strengthen these skills:

Role plays

Dramatizations

Encourage role-playing where children assume different characters and practice social situations.

Fictitious Store or Restaurant

Creating a fictional store or restaurant can be a fun way to practice social interactions and roles.

Collaboration Games

Tower Building

Work as a team to build towers with blocks, encouraging cooperation and communication. Test cooperative games for children and teenagers

Group Puzzle

Solving a group puzzle requires coordination and teamwork.

Social Card Games

Friends Memory Game

Use cards with photos of friends and family to play memory, mentioning something positive about each person as you match the cards.

"I Have, Who Has?"

A card game that encourages active listening and attention.

Outdoor Cooperation Games

Pairs Bag Race

Children must work together to reach the finish line, encouraging communication and collaboration.

Rope Games

Activities like group jumping rope promote coordination and positive interaction.

Conversation Games

Talking Ball

Pass a ball and ask a question; The child who receives it responds and passes the ball to another person.

Mock Interviews

Children can interview each other to get to know each other better and share information about their interests.

Conflict Resolution Games

Conflict Theater

Act in conflict situations and look for alternative solutions.

Problem Solving Card Game

Cards with problematic social scenarios and discussion of possible solutions.

Observation Games

Positive Behavior Bingo

Create bingo cards with positive behaviors to observe in others.

Emotional Charades

Acting out different emotions for others to guess.

What should you keep in mind when playing with a child with ADHD? recommendations

When playing with a child who has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it is essential to take certain aspects into account to maximize the playing experience and promote skill development. Here are some recommendations:

Flexibility and Adaptability

Be flexible with game rules and structures, allowing for some freedom and spontaneity.

Adapt the activities according to the needs and interests of the child, seeking to maintain their attention and motivation.

Limited Attention Time

Divide activities into shorter segments to fit the child's limited attention time.

Introduce variety in activities to avoid boredom.

Establish Clear Routines

Provide clear, concise instructions before beginning an activity.

Create predictable routines so the child knows what to expect, which can reduce anxiety.

Reinforce Positive Behavior

Provide praise and positive reinforcement when the child shows good behavior, concentration, or participation.

Build self-esteem by highlighting successes, even small ones.

Incorporate Movement

Integrate activities that allow movement, such as outdoor games, jumping jacks, or games that involve physical movement.

Provides options for the child to get up, stretch, or move for short periods.

Clarity of Expectations

Set clear expectations about behavior and the rules of the game from the beginning.

Use visual reminders, such as lists or images, to help remember instructions.

Provide Breaks

Recognize when the child needs a break and allow him or her to take short breaks during the activity.

Offers more relaxed activity options to balance busy periods.

Encourage Active Participation

Actively involve the child, giving them roles or responsibilities in the game.

Ask about their preferences and adapt activities accordingly.

Promote Social Games

Encourage activities that involve social interaction to develop social skills.

Model positive social behavior during play.

Open Communication

Maintain open communication and encourage your child to share their thoughts or concerns about the game.

Actively listen and validate their emotions.

How to treat a child with ADHD at home

Treating a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at home involves implementing strategies that promote their comprehensive development, manage their symptoms, and foster a positive environment. Here are some recommendations:

Establish Consistent Routines

● Create predictable daily routines to provide structure and help the child anticipate what comes next.

● Include specific times for tasks, activities, meals, and breaks.

Promote Organization

● Provides an organized environment with specific places for school objects and supplies.

● Use visual organizers, such as to-do lists and calendars, to help your child follow the routine.

Provide Clear Instructions

● Give clear and concise instructions, breaking down larger tasks into smaller steps.

● Make sure your child understands the instructions before starting a task.

Reinforce Positive Behavior

● Praise and reinforce positive behavior. Celebrate achievements, no matter how small.

● Establish a reward system to motivate and recognize good behaviors.

Promote Autonomy

● Encourages independence and responsibility by allowing the child to make decisions within reasonable limits.

● Set clear and realistic expectations to promote a sense of achievement.

Offer Calming Environments

● Create quiet spaces free of distractions for tasks that require concentration.

● Provide relaxation strategies, such as weighted pillows or space to rest.

Facilitate Regular Exercise

● Include regular physical activities in your daily routine to help release energy and improve concentration.

● Explore options such as sports, outdoor games or yoga practice.

Encourage Open Communication

● Establish an environment where the child feels comfortable expressing his or her feelings and concerns.

● Actively listen and validate their emotions.

Collaborate with the School

● Maintain open and constant communication with teachers to coordinate strategies and provide consistent support.

● Participate in school meetings and share relevant information about the child's ADHD.

Seek Professional Support

● Consult health professionals, such as psychologists or ADHD specialists, for guidance and support.

● Consider therapy, for both the child and the family, to address emotional and social issues.

Remember that each child is unique, and it is important to adapt strategies according to your child's specific needs. Patience, understanding and love are essential in the process of raising a child with ADHD.

Conclusion

It is essential to recognize the diversity in the manifestation of ADHD symptoms and address the specific needs of each child. By implementing strategies that encourage structure, open communication, and positive reinforcement, you can contribute to the overall development of the child.

Creating predictable routines, promoting autonomy, and collaborating with the school are key aspects of providing a supportive environment. Incorporating activities that encourage concentration, social development and energy management contributes significantly to the child's well-being.

Likewise, it is important to remember that the inclusion of health professionals and the search for therapeutic support can be valuable resources to address the emotional and social aspects associated with ADHD.

Ultimately, the path to raising a child with ADHD involves a holistic approach that recognizes and celebrates the child's individual strengths, while addressing areas that require additional support. With love, patience and commitment, you can significantly contribute to the well-being and positive development of a child with ADHD.