The Child Who Can’t Sit Still

Children are not meant to sit still for long periods of time. I remember over 35 years ago learning that, as teachers, we need to change the activity according to age. For example:

 

For a 5-year-old, every five minutes.

For a 10-year-old, every ten minutes.

Then the instructor said that even with adults, we cannot remain focused for more than 20 minutes.

 

There are so many ways to teach that do not require sitting at a desk with a pencil and a piece of paper. Children learn better by doing.

I know many parents do not feel the child can learn important information if they are not filling in the blanks on a sheet of paper.

Please look at the picture below. Then try to implement as many of the learning styles as possible.

Now, to address this on another level.

Diet, diet, diet.

If a child has been ‘diagnosed’ with ADHD or another such label, diet is essential if improvement is to be made. I address this in further detail in my Food & Behavior training (available on my Skool page, Living Ready Collective).

 

If we are switching activities and have addressed the diet, then other options would be to offer ways for the child to receive the extra stimulation they need. Some brains just need more stimulation in order to focus.

Things I have used effectively at home and in the classroom:

*Having set times with a brain break. I used a timer. My son earned computer and TV time (with daily limits) by staying on task.

*Using an exercise ball for a seat.

*offering a small fidget toy as long as it didn’t disturb other students and they did their work.

*Begin the day, after devotions, with exercise.

*Have movement breaks.

*Allow free choice seating, as long as the work is being completed.

 

Remember that there are 7 different learning styles. Sometimes simply changing the style of teaching to match the style of learning will work miracles.

Be sure to check out my Skool page, Living Ready Collective.