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Physical Activity Levels and Preschoolers’ ADHD Symptoms

Physical activity plays a vital role in early childhood development, impacting everything from motor skills to emotional regulation and social interactions. For preschoolers with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), physical activity can be a valuable tool for managing common symptoms such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Learn more about physical activity levels and preschoolers’ ADHD symptoms, what types of physical activity influence ADHD symptoms in young children, and practical strategies for parents, teachers, and therapists. By incorporating specific physical activities into daily routines, caregivers and educators can support preschoolers with ADHD in engaging their bodies and minds, helping them succeed both at home and in the classroom.

IMPORTANCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR PRESCHOOLERS

Physical activity is essential for young children’s development, influencing their physical health, emotional well-being, and cognitive abilities. Regular physical activity in preschoolers has been shown to support attention, mood, and even basic brain structure. As children move and play, they build foundational skills that help them manage their emotions, interact with peers, and prepare for more structured environments. These benefits extend to all children but may be especially valuable for preschoolers displaying symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD often face challenges with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, and recent studies have highlighted physical activity as a potentially powerful tool in managing these symptoms.

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USING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TO HELP MANAGE ADHD SYMPTOMS

For children with ADHD, physical activity may play a role in symptom management by promoting better focus, reducing impulsivity, and supporting emotional regulation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that physical activity positively impacts brain areas linked to attention and behavior control—two key areas for children with ADHD. For example, children with ADHD are at greater risk for mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, and physical activity has been found to help manage these issues as well.

Moreover, regular physical activity is cost-effective and accessible through schools, parks, and community centers. Some school-based programs even provide free resources to encourage moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. By incorporating physical activity into daily routines, caregivers and educators can support both the mental and physical health of children with ADHD while giving them a structured outlet for their energy.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS AND PRESCHOOLERS’ ADHD SYMPTOMS – WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?

Recent research provides a more nuanced view of how physical activity affects preschoolers with ADHD. A study by Shoulberg et al. (2024) examined two physical activity dimensions—physical activity volume (total amount of activity) and physical activity variability (changes in activity levels throughout the day)—to understand their unique impacts on ADHD symptoms.

Interestingly, the study found that high physical activity levels alone did not necessarily reduce ADHD symptoms and, in some cases, were associated with increased symptoms of hyperactivity. However, when children had higher variability in their activity levels—meaning they alternated between active and calm periods—symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity appeared to decrease. This suggests that it’s not just how much physical activity children get but how they regulate their activity to match different settings, such as moving during playtime but sitting calmly during group activities.

The study’s findings indicate that children who consistently have high physical activity levels throughout the day without periods of lower activity may struggle more with hyperactivity and inattentiveness. This highlights the importance of encouraging not only sufficient physical activity but also helping children adjust their activity levels according to the situation.

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STRATEGIES FOR THE PRESCHOOL CLASSROOM AND AT HOME

This research suggests practical ways for parents, teachers, and therapists to support preschoolers with ADHD through physical activity:

  • Balance Active and Calm Periods: Structuring the day to include both active playtimes and quiet, focused times can help children learn to regulate their activity. For example, following an energetic game with a quieter activity like storytime or drawing may help reinforce the ability to adjust to different settings.
  • Encourage Structured Physical Activity: Activities that incorporate rules and self-regulation—such as “Simon Says” or “Freeze Dance”—allow children to practice self-control in a fun, engaging way. These games require children to start and stop movement, helping them develop skills to manage impulsivity.
  • Recognize Individual Needs: Since each child with ADHD may respond differently to physical activity, it’s essential to observe how individual children react to different types and amounts of physical activity. For some, more structured, lower-impact activities may be beneficial, while others may thrive with a mix of high and low-intensity play.

In addition to these guiding principles, here are several specific strategies to integrate throughout the day:

  1. Quick Stretch Breaks: Incorporate brief stretch sessions between activities to help children refocus. These can include simple stretches for arms, legs, and torso, giving them a quick reset.
  2. Dance Breaks: Set aside time for a few minutes of dance to lively music, which lets children release energy in a positive way. This can be especially useful just before a quieter, seated activity.
  3. Outdoor Free Play: Outdoor playtime encourages free movement and self-directed activities, allowing children to explore and expend energy. This unstructured play is key for building self-regulation and social skills.
  4. Breathing Exercises: Teach simple breathing exercises, like taking deep breaths in and out, which can calm children after energetic play and help them transition to focused tasks.
  5. Obstacle Courses: Design an obstacle course with items like cones, ropes, or hoops to promote movement and following directions. Navigating the course provides both physical and cognitive challenges.
  6. Yoga or Mindful Movement: Introduce gentle movements or poses that promote balance and focus. Yoga for kids can help calm their minds and bodies, setting the tone for seated activities afterward.
  7. Transition Walks or Marching in Place: Encourage children to walk, march, or make gentle movements as they move between activities or classrooms, helping them manage their energy while shifting focus.
  8. Interactive Story Time with Movement: Choose books that invite children to mimic actions (like stretching or clapping), keeping them engaged while encouraging self-regulation and following instructions.
  9. Red Light/Green Light: This classic game lets children practice stopping and starting, supporting impulse control in a fun way. Alternating movement with stillness strengthens their ability to adjust to different activity demands.
  10. Short, Structured Activity Bursts: Incorporate short bursts of activity, such as jumping jacks or hopping, throughout the day to help children stay energized and manage their focus. These quick sessions can be especially helpful before activities that require sustained attention.

REFERENCE

Shoulberg, E. K., Scott, H., Martin, C. P., Tompkins, C. L., Dennis, M., Krasner, A., & Hoza, B. (2024). Relations Between Distinct Dimensions of Physical Activity and Preschoolers’ ADHD Symptoms. Journal of Attention Disorders, 0(0).

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