How to Manage Hyperactivity in Autistic Children
Hyperactivity is a common behavior exhibited by children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It refers to excessive or abnormal levels of activity, restlessness, and difficulty staying still or focusing on a task. In order to effectively manage hyperactivity in autistic children, it is important to understand the reasons behind this behavior and implement appropriate strategies. This article will discuss the causes of hyperactivity in children with ASD and provide several options for managing this behavior.
Understanding Hyperactivity in Autistic Children
Hyperactivity in autistic children can stem from a variety of factors. Here are some key reasons why this behavior manifests:
- Co-occurrence with ADHD: Many children with ASD also have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which commonly includes hyperactive behavior as a symptom.
- Sensory regulation: Individuals with ASD are often sensitive to different stimuli. Hyperactive behavior may result from their sensory needs and their efforts to regulate their sensory experiences.
- Difficulty in self-regulation: Children with ASD may struggle with regulating their impulses and behaviors. Hyperactivity can be a manifestation of these challenges, as they may have difficulty sitting still, staying focused, or controlling their movement.
Strategies for Managing Hyperactivity in Autistic Children
Now that we have an understanding of hyperactivity in autistic children and its underlying reasons, let’s explore some options for managing this behavior effectively:
- Structured Routine: Creating a fixed routine for your child can provide a sense of stability and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to hyperactivity. Maintain consistent schedules for meals, activities, and sleep. You can use a written or visual schedule that includes your child’s daily chores, activities, meals, and breaks.
- Activities: Engaging the child in regular physical exercise can help channel their energy in a constructive way. Activities such as swimming, biking, running, or walking can help release excess energy and improve focus.
- Sensory Schedule: Incorporate activities that provide sensory input throughout the day. This may include using sensory toys, providing a quiet space for relaxation, or incorporating sensory breaks during activities to help regulate their sensory system. Collaborate with your child to create a sensory schedule where you write down or place pictures of constant elements like meals and activities, allowing your child to fill in the empty spaces with their preferred sensory activities.
- Structured Environment: Create an environment that minimizes distractions and sensory triggers. Reduce excessive noise, clutter, and visual stimuli in the child’s surroundings. Provide a designated workspace with minimal distractions for focused tasks. For example, organize toys in cabinets, keep work materials in boxes and drawers, and present one task at a time in a neat and plain environment.
- Additional Support: Timers can be a useful tool to help the child understand expectations, transitions, and time limits. Set up timers to indicate task engagement and be flexible with transitions. For structured academic work, set a timer to let the child know the expected duration of the task. When giving the child access to a preferred sensory activity, use a timer to indicate the duration and facilitate smoother transitions.
- Reinforcement: Implement a rewards system to reinforce and encourage desired behaviors. Use praise, small incentives, or a token system to acknowledge and reward the child’s efforts in self-regulating their behavior. For example, if the child starts walking instead of running during transitions, use small edible rewards for every few steps taken without running.
It is important to remember that every child with ASD is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It is crucial to observe and understand the child’s triggers, strengths, and preferences while implementing a combination of strategies to manage and regulate their hyperactive behavior effectively.
By employing these strategies and adapting them to suit your child’s specific needs, you can help create a supportive and structured environment that promotes self-regulation and reduces hyperactivity in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Also read: How to Improve Food Behaviors in Autistic Children
About Olga Sirbu
My name is Olga Sirbu, I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavioral Analyst. My goal is to support and empower families and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Autism Advance is dedicated to training parents and caregivers, providing practical tips, and teaching individuals how to educate kids with autism.
I share evidence-based practices to help you better understand and support individuals with autism. Learn practical strategies to help individuals with autism reach their full potential, as well as gain a deeper understanding and acceptance of autism.
Thank you for considering Autism Advance as a resource for your autism journey.
