Hyperactive Children
©Lloyd Fridenburg, 2007
Terms like ADHD, ADD, and hyperactivity seem to have become commonplace in today’s learning institutions. In fact recent studies have shown that elementary school teachers, with little if any formal training, are diagnosing children with supposed hyperactivity disorders.
I certainly don’t proclaim to be any sort of expert on the topic and my musings are based purely on personal experience and observation. But, it seems to me that only a highly qualified therapist with years of training and expertise is able to render a diagnosis that will potentially see children being subjected to drug treatments intended to change their behavior. Is it necessary? In some cases absolutely! But it has also become a crutch for inexperienced teachers that are confronted with children that don’t fit the “norm”.
Enrolling your child in a quality martial arts school where classes are taught by professional and dedicated instructors might be a good first step to take if your child seems to be a bit “wired”, or if you hear teachers starting to use terms like ADD or ADHD.
Martial arts training forces children to focus their attention; to respect authority; and to realize that misbehavior has consequences. Professional instructors are able to guide and handle children that are overactive and to channel that excess energy in a positive direction. It is not uncommon for parents to comment on the positive changes that martial arts training has brought about in other aspects of their child’s life. Especially in the way they view authority and interact with both teachers and fellow students.
As always, perform your due diligence and be sure that your chosen school is capable of delivering the results you are looking for. Martial arts training for children might just provide a natural solution for hyperactivity, ADD, or ADHD. But remember that there is no magic wand at the front of a martial arts school and you must do you part to reinforce the positive training they receive during their classes.
Sifu Lloyd Fridenburg is a 4th Degree Black Sash in Shaolin Kung Fu with nearly 20 years of experience. He is also a freelance writer and author of two martial arts books, “A Martial Arts Primer for Parents”, and “Middle Aged Warriors”. Both books are available as e-books at www.martialartsyoungandold.com .
