7 Benefits Of Outdoor Play For Children With ADHD

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7 Benefits Of Outdoor Play For Children With ADHD

7 Benefits Of Outdoor Play For Children With ADHD

ADHD Tips - ADHD coaching

Imagine if your child with ADHD could feel calmer, relaxed, more focused, and genuinely engaged with their environment. By encouraging them to play outside, this could become a reality. In this article, we explore why it might be time to open the doors and let your child explore the true potential of outdoor play.

What Are The Benefits Of Outdoor Play For ADHD?

Outdoor play is about more than just letting off steam. Research shows that spending time outside can help to improve symptoms of ADHD. For instance, children who regularly play outside in a green area with lots of grass and trees have been shown to have milder ADHD symptoms than those playing either in built-up environments or indoors.

So let’s look specifically at what benefits outdoor play can offer for your child with ADHD.

1. Improved Focus and Attention Span

Children with ADHD typically have significant challenges with their focus and attention, which can make concentrating on schoolwork difficult for them. When playing outside, children naturally focus on what they enjoy, allowing their brains the space to recover and re-set.

2. Reduced Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

Regular physical activity in an outdoor environment can offer a healthy outlet for excess energy, leading to calmer behavior and fewer impulsive actions. Notably, children with high hyperactivity levels show greater symptom improvement following regular play in a green space.

3. Enhanced Emotional Well-being

Spending time in nature can have a significantly calming effect on children with ADHD. This can help to reduce the risk of co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

4. Stronger Social Skills

Children with ADHD often struggle socially. Outdoor play offers an excellent opportunity to participate in group activities in large open spaces. This can have a positive impact on both their emotional and social development.

6. Physical Health Benefits

Outdoor play naturally encourages children to get plenty of physical exercise. This helps to strengthen muscles and promote healthy weight and cardiovascular fitness.

7. Sensory Stimulation

Outside areas tend to be sensory-rich, providing children with plenty of opportunities to explore different colors, textures, and sounds. Children with ADHD are more likely to have sensory processing issues, and these experiences can help them to address these.

Choose Pathways Neuropsychology Associates Today!

At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates, we are here to help you navigate the daily challenges of living with ADHD. Contact us today to find out more about our specialized services.

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At Pathways Neuropsychology Associates we use evidence-based evaluation instruments and treatments to get you, your loved one, or your child on the path to success. If you or someone you love are struggling with the symptoms of ADHD, call now and get started!

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The post 7 Benefits Of Outdoor Play For Children With ADHD appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
7 Benefits Of Outdoor Play For Children With ADHD

Exercise Ideas for Different Stages of Dementia

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Exercise Ideas for Different Stages of Dementia

Exercise Ideas for Different Stages of Dementia

Exercise Ideas for Different Stages of Dementia |Psychologist - Toms River NJ

Exercise is important for everyone, but it can be particularly beneficial for individuals living with dementia. Regular exercise can help to slow cognitive decline, optimize sleep, and improve physical and mental well-being. However, it is essential to choose exercise options tailored to each stage of dementia to maximize their benefits and ensure safety.

In this article, we look at some specific exercise ideas for the different stages of dementia:

Exercises for Early-Stage Dementia

During the early stages of dementia, individuals are generally still able to perform a range of physical activities to promote their cardiovascular fitness and build strength and flexibility through their muscles. Exercise during this stage can also help to reduce the risk of unexpected hospitalization.

Types of exercise, at this stage, could include:

  • Brisk walking or jogging
  • Swimming
  • Cycling (either outdoors or on a stationary bike)
  • Dancing
  • Strength training (using body weight, light weights, or resistance bands)
  • Yoga or Tai Chi

Exercises for Middle-Stage Dementia

As dementia progresses, we should adapt exercises to accommodate changing abilities and focus on providing enjoyment.

Some ideas include:

  • Chair exercises
  • Gentle stretching
  • Attending dementia-friendly exercise groups
  • Dancing to familiar music
  • Easy household and gardening tasks
  • Simple ball games to improve hand-eye coordination

Exercises for Late-Stage Dementia

Movement remains important during the later stages of dementia. Try to incorporate exercises that promote circulation, flexibility, and relaxation. During this time, individuals may need some extra support from their caregivers.

Here are a few suggestions:

  • Range of motion exercises
  • Light hand massage
  • Spend some time outside to get some fresh air and sunshine
  • Try some gentle stretching exercises to loosen tight muscles

General Tips for Exercising with Dementia

As you help your loved one to increase their physical activity, there are a few things that you should consider:

  • Choose activities that are enjoyable and engaging
  • Create a safe and comfortable environment for your loved one to exercise in
  • Start with short sessions and gradually increase the exercise duration
  • Encourage your loved one to celebrate their success and progress
  • Remember to be patient and willing to adapt activities to fit in with your loved one’s current abilities and needs

How Can Pathways Neuropsychology Associates Help?

Living with dementia is challenging — for both those affected and their families. Our experienced team at Pathways Neuropsychology Associates is ready to support you on this journey. Contact us today to find out more about the services that we offer, including comprehensive dementia evaluations and screenings.

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The post Exercise Ideas for Different Stages of Dementia appeared first on Pathways Neuropsychology Associates.


Source: ADHD
Exercise Ideas for Different Stages of Dementia