Hello Parents, In today’s article, I will share with you the solution to problems related to Hyperactivity in autism. Hyperactivity is often linked to sensory issues, displaying anger, refusing to wear clothes, or struggling to sleep at night. Following this 4-step routine can help manage these challenges.
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Problems of Hyperactivity in Autism
- The child does not sit still in school and there are constant complaints.
- The child does not cooperate in therapy sessions.
- The child does not sleep early at night and wakes up frequently.
- It becomes difficult to keep the child calm due to excessive energy.
Hyperactivity Solutions: 4-Step Routine
1. Gross Motor Activity (20-30 minutes)
After waking up the child in the morning, get him to do some gross motor activity to use his extra energy. – Examples:
- Walking or running.
- Climbing stairs.
- Jumping on a trampoline (if the child is not overexcited).
- Playing football.
Make sure the child sweats during the activity. This will expend his energy and he will be more calm.
2. Hydration (giving water)
Give the child 1 glass of water after the activity. Hydration keeps the body cool and the mind calm. Make sure your should fully hydrated all the day.
3. Massage and deep compression (20 minutes)
- Massage the child with oil or moisturizer.
- Rub the hands, feet, palms, and soles well.
- If the child refuses to wear clothes, then use the same clothes and do a light massage.
- If time is short, then do only deep compression: Apply light pressure with your hands on each joint (arms and legs) 5 times. This process can be completed in 4-7 minutes.
Benefits: Deep compression activates the kid’s parasympathetic nervous system, making him feel calm and relaxed.
4. Nighttime massage and routine
Follow a routine of massage and deep compression before going to bed at night.
- Compressing a child with a heavy blanket or enveloping them comfortably in a blanket for 10 minutes a day can be beneficial, especially for children with autism or sensory processing difficulties.
- The benefits of deep pressure in autistic children are it provides proprioceptive input, a Calming effect, Improves body awareness, Helps with sleep and focus.
- This will relax his muscles and signal the brain that it is time to sleep.
Tips for parents to reduce Hyperactivity in Autism
- Every baby has different needs. Modify the routine according to the child.
- Parental instinct is the most important. Do what feels right for your child.
- Be patient. The child will take time to adjust to the new routine.
- Please make sure that your child gets good quality sleep. Autistic children often face sleep challenges and may also experience hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity, making them wake up even with minimal noise. Therefore, create a quiet, comfortable, and calming environment in their room to help them sleep better.
- Some tips for parents to reduce Hyperactivity in Autism are given in following picture:
Conclusion
This 4-step routine will not only reduce the hyperactivity of the child but also help him become more calm and focused. Spend time with your child, understand his needs, and provide a loving environment.
Share your experiences and suggestions with us. If you find this article helpful, please share it.
Thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are children with autism so Hyperactive?
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are usually hyperactive because:
Sensory processing problems: Autistic children’s sensory system is too sensitive or has difficulties processing information correctly.
Energy Regulation: Autistic children’s bodies and minds are not able to regulate energy properly, so they remain more active.
Communication difficulties: When they cannot express their needs or feelings, they use energy through behavior.
Impulsivity: Due to a lack of attention and concentration, they tend to work quickly or run from one place to another.
Alteration of routine: Due to the lack of routine or structure, autistic children’s minds and bodies feel unbalanced, which increases hyperactivity.
How do sensory processing issues contribute to Hyperactivity?
Sensory processing issues responsible for hyperactivity may include:
Self-regulation challenges – To balance sensory input, children make repetitive movements and also show impulsive behaviors.
Overstimulation – When children experience too much light, sound, touch, or smell, their brains cannot handle it, causing them to become restless and hyperactive.
Under stimulation – If a child does not get enough sensory input such as the sensation of deep pressure, they may release their energy, such as running, jumping, or touching things which causes them to become restless and hyperactive.
Proprioceptive needs – Children affected by sensory processing disorders (SPD) often make quick movements such as swinging, running, or jumping to feel stable.