Amanda McLean, Ph.D.
Sports are a great way to get children with ADHD involved with their peers and provide them with opportunities to learn new skills and access positive interactions with adults.
Participating in team sports may benefit kids with ADHD because they have something positive to focus their energy on in a place where they can be rewarded for having energy. Sports can also offer the opportunity for a coach to have a positive impact on the child and for the child to feel good about his or her accomplishments.
Children with ADHD often exhibit impulsive and hyperactive behavior – making snap shot decisions, doing the first thing that comes to mind, difficulties waiting their turn, and interrupting, as well as inattention –difficulties resisting distractions. Regardless, kids with ADHD will struggle to stay on task and listen the first time. It is important for parents and coaches to remember to keep instructions short and only provide one or two simple instructions at a time.
Whether or not parents decide to inform the coaches that their child has ADHD, it is helpful to inform them of useful strategies and tips that will promote their child’s behavioral success.
Playing sports could impact your child’s self-esteem, build confidence and help the building blocks for his or her social life.