

Through this activity, the neural connections between the brain and body are strengthened, providing improved self-control. Repeated practice over several weeks will show improvement. The parent times how long the child can do this. You and your child can use your creativity and give this a try.Īn example of this technique would be to have your child attempt to sit in a chair without moving. In other words, kids with ADHD can imagine that they’re paying attention in class or handling teasing, which can change their behavior at school. For instance, research shows that if a person mentally practices their golf swing, the brain actually records the imaginary trials the same as if they were real trials, which leads to improvement on the golf course. Relaxation and Positive ImageryĬombining simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing with positive visual imagery helps the brain to improve or learn new skills. You’ll see your child’s concentration and sequencing improve the more they play, which is a great reward for both of you. You can increase the difficulty of the patterns as you go and include pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, and half dollars. If your child doesn’t complete it correctly, have them keep trying until they can do it. Write down the time it takes them to complete the pattern and whether or not they are correct. When they are finished, mark the time with the timer and remove the cardboard cover. Start the timer, and then ask them to make the same pattern using the coins from the pile. Then, cover the coins with the cardboard. Now, say to your child: “Look carefully at the coins arranged on the table.” Choose five of the coins from the pile (for this example, we’ll say three pennies and two nickels) and put them into a sequence.
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And kids enjoy it because it’s fast-paced and fun.įirst, you will need a small pile of assorted coins, a cardboard sheet to cover them, and a stopwatch or timer (there are lots of free timer apps available for your phone). Parents like this game because it improves memory and sequencing, as well as attention and concentration. Keep a record of progress (usually, this will include how fast your child can complete a task or how long they can continue a task). While doing these exercises together, be sure to provide reinforcement in the form of praise and encouragement. Here are a few simple exercises to get you started. The key is presenting them as games that are fun for parents and children to do together. They’re a way of helping your child build up focus and endurance in order to strengthen their ability to concentrate, process, and manage their emotions.Īs a child psychologist and the father of a son with ADHD, I developed a host of exercises that help kids with ADHD improve their concentration.

Brain exercises basically work on the same principle. Think of it this way: when you want to build up your muscles, what do you do? You do strength and endurance training.
