The Power of Movement in Kids Who Struggle

From dancing to playground games, movement has been shown to be a powerful force when it comes to helping children with challenges related to behavioral challenges, ADHD, learning disabilities, processing disorders, Aspergers syndrome (ASD), and a host of other related childhood learning and developmental issues. By enlisting the body in aiding the whole self, kids and parents can overcome many of their daily struggles. Here are some ways to encourage your kids to move around more.

Dancing is a great movement option that can engage a child who is having trouble with focus, behavior or learning. The art of dance has long been a way to express the self without words. For a child with Aspergers Syndrome (ASD) or who is on the autism spectrum, it can be a perfect outlet to express emotions that otherwise may not be visible. It can also connect the mind and body in a way that those with difficulties socializing or focusing struggle to achieve. The repetitive and choreographed movements improve gross motor skills and memory, and are approachable for those who like a routine.

 

Aside from the benefits it offers children, dancing can also be useful for those who have anxiety, behavioral issues or even ADHD. The calming power of musical movement can improve focus and social harmony, both internally and externally. In a small study, boys with ADHD who took a dance session were better able to do their schoolwork and got into fewer altercations with their peers. Dance is certainly a force to be reckoned with!

When the weather is nice, it's a great idea to spend long afternoons at the playing outside. Interventions using outside play have been used to aid children who have emotional difficulties. A child with focus or sensory-processing issues can benefit from getting active outside and they can be encouraged to jump, climb, spin, swing and touch outdoor items in a safe environment.

Increasing physical movement, whether through a game of tag or kickball, has also been shown to alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD. Just like allowing a child with ADHD to fidget, providing a means of regular physical activity (such as unstructured play at the playground) can be a great way to help them succeed. Spending time in nature has also been shown to increase focus in the classroom, so be sure to play outside regularly whenever you're able.

You don't need to be a professional to incorporate aspects of movement into your daily interactions with your child. On a rainy day, try some indoor movement activities. One popular option for kids with sensory processing issues is to do some gentle yoga. Many of the poses involve balance (great for the vestibular system), muscle engagement for a sense of control, or calming elements that will provide a sense of safety.

 

Another gentle, indoor movement option would be to bounce on an exercise ball, which can benefit children with a range of emotional needs. A simple game of "Simon Says," where you encourage your child to connect the two sides of their brain by touching a foot with the opposite hand while hopping up and down.

 

There are many ways to use the benefits of movement to treat a multitude of emotional and behavioral issues in your child. Whether you head to the playground, roll out your yoga mat in the living room, or spend some time dancing like no one is watching, a little movement can certainly help your child succeed.