Sports generally provide many benefits in physical and psychological health of young children. However, for those who are diagnosed with ADHD, some sports might be a better fit than others. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that affects roughly 8.8% of children ages 4 -17 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Main symptoms of ADHD include impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Depending on the symptom severity, parents are able to choose sports that provide the most benefits for their child. Dr. Pollack, a pediatrician of the Henry Ford Health System in Michigan, suggests that those sports that fully engage the athletes are better than the ones that require more concentration. Individual sports, such as swimming, martial arts, and wrestling are most ideal for children with ADHD. Team sports such as basketball and soccer are also good because athletes are in constant motion. In conclusion, sports with more dynamics provide the fewer distractions, and thus easier for kids to focus.
One thing to keep in mind for parents when choosing sports for their children with ADHD is the medication schedule. Most medications peak the effect during school time, allowing the kids to focus during classes. If the child plays sports after school, parents should consult the doctors and adjust the way of taking medication.
Children with ADHD can benefit from sports, just as their peers who do not have the condition. The key is to find the right type of sports that the child enjoys to play.
