If you’re a parent or caregiver, you’ve likely experienced moments where your child seems to have an endless supply of energy, bouncing off the walls and struggling to settle down. You’re not alone!
Many young children, especially but not only those with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), often show signs of hyperactivity that can be overwhelming.
However, before resorting to stimulant medication, there are natural remedies that can help manage your child’s energy levels, improving their focus and overall well-being.
So let’s explore our top 10 natural remedies to calm a hyper child, with a holistic approach.
Best Calming Natural Remedies for Kids with Hyperactivity
Here are ten effective natural remedies, in no particular order as some will work best for some kiddos and another better for another child. So read through them all and see what resonates.
1. Use Physical Activity
One of the best ways to help a hyperactive child manage their high energy levels is through physical activity. Encouraging physical activities such as running, jumping, or even practicing martial arts can have a positive impact on your child’s nervous system and impulse control.
Activities like these allow them to channel their excess energy in a structured way, which can be a great way to calm hyperactive children. Studies have shown that regular exercise helps regulate brain waves, balance mood swings, and improve cognitive function in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Take advantage of local parks, playgrounds, or even your own backyard. Taking part in daily outdoor activities can make a significant difference in calming your child’s hyperactivity, but if you don’t have access to outdoor space many of these physical activities can be done indoors too.
Sensory seeking kiddos can often benefit from heavy work, like carrying objects from here to there, or taking part in yard work and so on. It gives them that heavy physical input to regulate their proprioception and can really help with calming too.
2. Essential Oils for a Calming Effect
Essential oils have been used for centuries as a natural remedy to manage stress and anxiety, and they can work wonders for hyperactive kids.
Lavender, chamomile, and vetiver oils, for instance, have a calming effect on the nervous system. Incorporating these oils into your child’s bedtime routine through diffusers or by adding a few drops to their bath can help calm their body and mind, promoting better sleep and reducing symptoms of ADHD.
Always ensure you’re using high-quality, child-safe essential oils and consult with a healthcare provider before applying them directly to your child’s skin.
3. Omega-3 Supplements for Brain Function
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and certain seeds, play a vital role in brain function and have been shown to improve ADHD symptoms in children.
Fatty acids are essential for maintaining balanced brain activity, and a recent study has indicated that omega-3 supplements can have a positive effect on hyperactive children, helping with impulse control and reducing behavioral problems.
You can introduce omega-3-rich foods like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts into your child’s diet or opt for high-quality supplements if your little one is a picky eater.
4. Dietary Adjustments: Minimize Processed Foods and Artificial Additives
What your child eats can greatly influence their activity levels. Processed foods, gmo foods, artificial sweeteners, dyes and other food additives have been linked to increased hyperactivity in young children.
Making dietary adjustments and focusing on a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can positively impact your child’s behavior and overall health.
Keep an eye out for food allergies, as they can sometimes mimic or worsen ADHD symptoms. Eliminating foods that trigger these allergies can lead to significant improvements.
5. Herbal Medicine and Natural Supplements
Several herbal supplements have been found to be effective in calming a hyper child. Herbs like Bacopa Monnieri, Ginkgo Biloba, Gotu Kola, and Pine Bark Extract are known to support cognitive function and reduce hyperactivity.
These herbs have been used in Ayurvedic medicine and other traditional treatments to help manage symptoms of ADHD and improve overall brain activity.
Consult with a healthcare provider before adding any herbal remedies to your child’s treatment plan, especially if they are already taking ADHD medications.
6. Lemon Balm and Avena Sativa for Nervous System Support
Both lemon balm (from the mint family) and Avena Sativa (oat straw) are calming herbs that can be included in your child’s daily routine. Lemon balm has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood, while Avena Sativa is known for supporting the nervous system and balancing brain function. These herbal treatments can be an effective and gentle way to address hyperactivity.
A warm lemon balm tea before bedtime can be a soothing ritual that helps calm your child and sets the stage for a peaceful night’s sleep.
7. Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen time can overstimulate a child’s brain and lead to increased hyperactivity and behavioral problems. Reducing screen exposure, especially before bedtime, can regulate circadian rhythms and have a positive effect on your child’s energy levels and impulse control.
Encourage other engaging activities, like reading or puzzle-solving, as alternatives to screen time. Here are some of our favorite screen free activities.
8. Behavioral Therapy and Structured Routines
Incorporating behavioral therapy and establishing a structured routine can work wonders for children with high energy levels. Having a consistent daily schedule provides stability and helps manage symptoms of ADHD.
Additionally, behavioral therapy can teach children strategies for impulse control and managing their energy.
Working closely with a professional can tailor strategies that best suit your child’s individual needs.
9. Encourage a Balanced Sleep Routine
Sleep is crucial for regulating brain waves and managing a hyper child’s energy. Establishing a bedtime routine that includes relaxing activities like reading, gentle stretching, or listening to calming music or white noise can help promote better sleep quality. This simple lifestyle change can lead to a significant difference in managing hyperactivity.
Lack of sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms, so make sleep a priority!
10. Herbal Teas and Calming Drinks
Incorporating calming herbal teas like chamomile or valerian root into your child’s evening routine can be a gentle way to help them wind down. These herbal remedies are known to relax the nervous system and prepare the body for restful sleep.
If your child isn’t a fan of herbal teas, try adding a bit of honey or serving it over ice to make it more appealing.
A Holistic Approach to Calming a Hyper Child
Every child is unique, and finding the right combination of natural remedies might take a bit of trial and error.
Whether it’s adjusting your child’s diet, incorporating physical activity, or using herbal medicine, these natural ways to calm a hyper child can make a significant difference in your child’s treatment journey.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any new treatments, especially when dealing with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or other health conditions.
By focusing on a holistic approach that addresses both the mind and body, you can help your hyperactive child thrive in a way that’s gentle, nurturing, and effective. It’s about finding what works best for your family life and supporting your child every step of the way.
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