A recent study from the University of Central Florida has revealed that children with ADHD learn more effectively when they are allowed to move about freely. The research team examined 52 boys aged eight to twelve, including 29 diagnosed with ADHD, while the rest demonstrated typical developmental patterns. The children were tasked with exercises designed to evaluate their working memory, which is essential for cognitive functions such as learning, reasoning, and understanding new concepts.
During these tasks, the kids were shown jumbled numbers and a letter on a screen, requiring them to arrange the numbers and attach the letter at the end. The researchers meticulously documented the children’s movements throughout the process. Mark Trent, one of the authors, previously found that hyperactivity in ADHD children tends to surface primarily during the use of their executive functions, particularly during active learning. This finding underscores a critical aspect of their learning success: “What we’ve discovered is that increased movement leads to improved performance for many of these children… They need to move to stay alert.”
In essence, compelling ADHD kids to remain still and suppress fidgeting can hinder their educational progress. Interestingly, non-ADHD peers also exhibited movement during tasks, yet their performance was not as strong. Traditional ADHD interventions often aim to minimize hyperactivity, but allowing kids to fidget, tap their feet, use a stationary bike, or bounce on an exercise ball could enhance their learning experience. As schools increasingly focus on testing, it may be time for educators to rethink classroom structures and lesson plans in ways that better accommodate ADHD learners.
Trent advises, “The takeaway isn’t to let them run wild, but rather to create an environment that accommodates their need to move, ensuring they maintain the alertness essential for cognitive tasks.” This perspective may encourage a shift in how educators approach teaching strategies for ADHD students.
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In summary, instead of instructing ADHD children to stop fidgeting, we should recognize that movement can play a significant role in enhancing their learning capabilities. By fostering an environment that supports their need to be active, we can help them thrive academically.