Quickly Help Your Kiddo Navigate Hyperactive Moments.

 Hey there, caregivers!  Raising a kiddo is quite an adventure, filled with ups and downs. Things can also go sideways quickly. If you are looking for tips to help your child calm down quickly in those hyperactive moments, then this article is for you!

 When a child becomes hyperactive, it's as though the ON switch is flipped, and they become incomprehensive to sound reasoning and adult direction. This can be frustrating, embarrassing, and even worse, terrifying when safety is a factor.  We've been there. “What do we do?” or "What is happening right now? " were my go-to questions during these moments.  

 Believe it or not, this can also be scary for the child, who may not know how to process the big feelings that they are having.  Kiddo hyperactivity can be triggered without a moment’s notice for many reasons, including anxiety, overthinking, overexcitement, the infamous sugar high (followed by the dreaded low), and other causes.  If you have experienced this, you are not alone on this roller coaster.

We've got tips that can help your kiddo constructively and quickly transform intense energy.  Buckle up and enjoy the ride.

And hey, while you're at it, have you checked out www.wagsoverworries.com?  It’s a treasure trove of resources partnering with some of the top mental health & wellness resources.

Distraction Technique (Refocus Attention):

· Importance: Shifts the child's focus from the source of hyperactivity.

· Implementation: Engage the child in a different activity or topic of interest, such as asking them fun questions, telling a joke, coloring, or talking about their favorite topic.

· Benefits: Redirects the child's attention to a calming activity, reducing immediate hyperactivity.

The Magic of Calm-Down Routines:

· Importance: Provides a structured approach to calming down during overwhelming moments.

· Implementation: Introduce techniques like deep breaths, counting stars, or creating a special corner filled with fluffy pillows.

· Benefits: Helps in quickly transitioning from a hyperactive state to a calm one by finding what resonates with the child.

Sensory Superheroes:

· Importance: Provides sensory tools that can be comforting during overstimulated moments.

· Implementation: Introduce tools like fidget spinners, stress balls, wobble seats, bouncy ball seats, velcro, or weighted blankets.

· Benefits: Offers a tactile experience that can soothe and calm the child.

Screen Time: Less is More:

· Importance: Recognizes the need for a break from constant digital exposure.

· Implementation: Replace some screen time with outdoor activities, reading, or board games. Although this may be a bit more work for the parent,  scheduling impromptu playdates is also an awesome way for your kiddo to digitally disconnect and have fun in the real world.

· Benefits: Reduces digital fatigue and encourages more interactive and imaginative play.

Dive into Stories:

· Importance: Uses storytelling as a medium to discuss anxious feelings and emotions.

· Implementation: Read books like "OH, MAYA!" addressing anxiety and ADHD.

· Benefits: Initiates conversations about feelings, fostering trust and understanding between you and your child.

Quick Physical Activity:  Move Groove & Soothe

· Importance: Channels excess energy into a constructive outlet.

· Implementation: Engage the child in brief physical activities like dancing to a favorite tune, jumping jacks, running in place, stair climbing, or quick stretches.

· Benefits: Redirects and releases energy, acting as a mood reset.

Quiet Time or Time-Out:

· Importance: Offers a break from overstimulating environments.

· Implementation: Guide the child to a quiet corner or space for relaxation. Ask them if they want to take a 5-minute walk in the house, backyard, or school.

· Benefits: Allows the child to decompress and regain composure.

In closing, managing hyperactive moments is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and the right tools to add to your tool kit. Depending on your child's unique needs, these strategies may or may not work. Talk to your healthcare provider for guidance and support as well. 

The goal is to help your kiddo positively and safely transition from a hyperactive state to a calmer and focused mindset. Empowering kiddos with these strategies also helps them learn critical self-regulation techniques essential for successful, thriving adults. 

Remember, you're not alone on this rollercoaster ride; with the right approach, strategies, and support, you can help your child navigate these moments successfully and keep your sanity....Yay!