We recruited 44 boys and girls between the ages of 10 and 17. Thus, the study was able to objectively measure the level of movement for each trial, allowing the study to more accurately map each individual’s movement to their accuracy on the attention test. We “synced” up the performance on a trial-by-trial basis on the attention task with measures of motor activity for each individual child. What makes our study unique is the precision of the data acquired. Clinically and anecdotally, we hear parents comment that their children are more manageable and focused on their homework when they are participating in sports and have the opportunity to “use their energy.” Another recent study found that higher rates of physical movement were associated with better working memory task performance for children with ADHD, but not typically developing controls.
Other studies have found that children with ADHD perform better after physical activity and are more behaved in school if given access to recess. Previous studies found that children were more physically active when they were given a difficult task in comparison to an easy one. Our research team was interested in observing the relationship between children’s movement and their concentration. In a recent study we published in the Journal of Child Neuropsychology, we found that children with ADHD perform better on a complex attention task when they are fidgeting. Even in adults with ADHD, the hyperactivity can be observed as increased restlessness and fidgeting. Children who express a lot of hyperactive behavior can be disruptive in class, leading to problems with teachers and friends. Unfortunately, hyperactivity can cause problems for children both academically and socially.
Hyperactivity is one of the most observable symptoms and is commonly the first symptom noticed. One of the most common childhood disorders, ADHD can persist into adulthood. But what if this is actually preventing some children from performing to their highest potential? HAVE YOU EVER FOUND YOURSELF PACING as you talk on the phone or fidgeting while sitting through meetings and lectures? Perhaps you find yourself concentrating better when you are chewing gum? Children are taught to quietly sit still and pay attention in the classroom.
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