ADHD and Sports

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ADHD and Sports Research Note

By Reader's Digest Editors

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In general, exercise seems to help children with ADHD focus better, and minimizes attention problems. In fact, even something as simple as a 20-minute walk in the park can improve a child's attention. And studies have show that children with ADHD who are active in sports have fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression than kids who aren't active. Some sports, such as baseball, may be more challenging for student athletes because they require concentration even when very little is happening. Soccer, which moves more quickly, may better engage kids with ADHD. Finally, athletes who have ADHD may encounter problems when they compete at elite levels, because the International Olympics Committee bans the use of stimulant medications.

Fast Facts:
  • Exercise helps improve ADHD symptoms.
  • Fast-paced team sports, such as hockey and soccer, are good choices for children with ADHD.
  • Learning a martial art, like karate, may help improve a child's concentration and discipline.
  • Losing at sports may be especially challenging for children with ADHD who have low tolerance for frustration.
  • Learning the rules of a specific sport is a difficult task for kids with ADHD—they'd rather jump right in and play.

Best and worst after-school activities for children with ADHD | BabyCenter

babycenter.com — “Best and worst after-school activities for children with ADHDView full resource at babycenter.com

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Page not found | Dr. Sears Official Website | Parenting Advice, Parenting Books & more

askdrsears.com — “Page not found | Dr. Sears Official Website | Parenting Advice, Parenting Books & moreView full resource at askdrsears.com

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How to Get Your Child Involved in Sports - ADHD Center - Everyday Health

everydayhealth.com — “Sports are a fun way for kids to learn to play on a team and stay fit at the same time. Find out how to help children with ADHD enjoy these beneficial activities.View full resource at everydayhealth.com

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Game On: Picking Sports for ADHD Children | ADDitude - Attention Deficit Information & Resources

additudemag.com — “For children with attention deficit, not all sports are created equal. Here, find ideas for the best sports and activities for ADHD children and learn how to determine if a team or individual sport is best for your kid. ADHD symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information for adults and children from experts in attention deficit and learning disabilities like dyslexia. How to manage ADD medications, set up school accommodations for your child, help your marriage to an ADD/ADHD adult parent childrView full resource at additudemag.com

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