Many talk about how those with ADHD tend to have a lot of energy (hence the term “hyperactivity”) and that it can affect their ability to focus on tasks that they need to complete. It can be difficult for someone with ADHD to commit the cognitive resources needed to, for example, complete difficult homework or finish an essay.
Sometimes we need to put that energy into practice.
When a child with ADHD is completing a task that requires extensive mental resources, it may be hard for them to complete the task without difficulty. Many times, our instinct is to try to keep them focused. We may say things like “hurry up and finish” or “come on, stay focused, get this done” and, any time we see them get off task, we remind them that they have to keep on it.
The problem: this is hard for them. Sometimes very hard.
The other problem: this is a lot of work on us as well, and it’s not uncommon to find ourselves getting more and more frustrated, maybe even yelling. That’s worse for everyone involved.
What Can We Do?
Well, sometimes, we need to give their brain a break. Even though our goal is to get them to finish their task, it can be hard to focus only on the task.
So one thing we can do is provide a “brain break”: a short break from the task to help them calm their active minds.
But brain breaks are not silent time. Silent time is what neurotypical people may want, but kids with ADHD often have this pent up energy they need to release.
Instead, it’s a structured fun time.
For example, we can give our kids a few minutes to “get the sillies out.” Have them jump around in silly ways and use their energy. Maybe they can dance to one song, and at the end of the song they sit back down and go back to work. Or they can play with a sensory toy for a few minutes, with no expectation for them to do work, and then go back to work.
If they have been overwhelmed and could use some quiet time, they can also do a type of mindfulness activity, like yoga or silent meditation (within reason for their age group and behavioral level) and then go back to work. It depends on what kind of overwhelm they’re facing.
No matter the approach, the point will be to give them this brain break – this silly time – because even though it may feel like it is delaying their task completion, it provides them with this mental break that can really help them gain back their cognitive energy and go back to focusing on the task.
How Often Should Their Be Brain Breaks?
Brain breaks are not one and done events. In fact, it may be better to envision them as something they do often. It’s recommended you give these brain breaks every 15 or so minutes. Even though this may seem like it will delay completion of the task, like homework, many kids end up finishing quicker because they are not as burdened by their cognitive load.
Want to give your child more help with their ADHD? Reach out to ADHD Training Center, today.