Child psychologist shares 8 best fun things that can help calm an ADHD and ASD child

From sensory play to yoga, here are effective activities backed by experts to ease restlessness, improve focus, and support emotional regulation in children with autism and ADHD. (Image: Pexels)

It can be a rewarding but difficult experience to raise or care for a child with autism and ADHD. Children with such disorders tend to have intense emotions, problems focusing and sensory sensitivities that can make everyday activities overwhelming. When that’s the case, structured but calming activities can be very helpful in making them feel secure, tuned in and regulated.

Though therapies, and organized routines are the building blocks of treatment, mundane activities are equally important in cultivating a sense of ease. Not only do these activities allow for self-expression, but they also relax and focus, reduce stress, and strengthen bonding. From sensory play to bouncing out energy, interventions can serve as stepping stones to a state of greater peace.

Dr Sarika Mehra (Child Psychologist, Behavioural Specialist) at Healing Kids Wellness Centre, told Moneycontrol that getting kids involved in fun yet therapeutic along with occupational activities is a great way to utilize their energy for the better. These activities can be done at home, in school or with family and friends when parents and caregivers want to help children manage difficult feelings.

Also Read: Autism causes and controversies: What science really says about vaccines, painkillers, and genetics

And here are eight calming activities known to soothe their restless minds, and help with overall development.

Sensory Play with Textures

Engaging with materials like kinetic sand, slime, or textured fabrics also gives children the opportunity to play through sensations in a controlled setting. Sensory playing can benefit and squeezing these toys can help with anxiety, stress and tension.

Deep Breathing Games

Blowing bubbles, pinwheels or balloons takes deep breathing and makes it fun. These practices are shown to reduce rates of breathing, whereby relaxation and emotions can be regulated.

Outdoor Nature Walks

Time in nature provides a calming influence. Nature’s textures and sounds provide the perfect environment to reduce overstimulation among children, offering them an ideal place to wind down as they subtly develop attention span.

Art and Creative Expression

Children can express with drawing, painting or colouring emotions that they don’t have words to describe. Eye-hand coordination is developed as frustration and stresses are lessened while creative potentials are quickly realised. Art therapy helps to improve self-esteem.

Music and Rhythm Activities

Soothing music, drumming or clapping to a beat activates the relaxation response in the nervous system. It fosters/encourages attention, affects mood and promotes communication.

Yoga and Gentle Movement

Easy kids yoga poses or children's stretching exercises can enhance body awareness and minimize hyperactivity. Gentle movement also directs surplus energy into relaxation.

Water Play

Sensory rich activities such as pouring water, splashing or playing with bath toys can help calm and relax a child. Water play is soothing and fun, especially in times of stress.

Storytelling and Reading Time

Youngsters wind down with silent reading or imaginative storytelling. Stories are predictable and therefore comforting for children with autism and ADHD.

Also Read: US President Donald Trump links Tylenol in pregnancy to autism; Doctors explain Trump's comments

FAQs on Calming an ADHD and ASD Child

1. What are some quick calming techniques for a child with ADHD and autism?
Quick techniques include deep breathing exercises, listening to soothing music, and engaging in sensory play with textures like kinetic sand or slime.

2. How can outdoor activities help in calming such children?
Outdoor activities like nature walks provide a calming influence through natural textures and sounds, reducing overstimulation and subtly developing attention span.

3. What role does art play in calming an ADHD and ASD child?
Art allows children to express emotions they might not be able to verbalise, reducing frustration and stress while enhancing eye-hand coordination and self-esteem.

4. Can yoga and gentle movement really help?
Yes, yoga and gentle stretching exercises enhance body awareness, reduce hyperactivity, and channel excess energy into relaxation.

5. How effective is water play in calming these children?
Water play is highly effective as it offers sensory-rich activities that are both soothing and enjoyable, helping to calm and relax the child.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.