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Playbook For ADHD, Compliance & Hyperactivity (4-8 Yrs)

The document is a playbook titled 'Super Skills for Super Kids' aimed at parents and educators of children aged 4-8 with ADHD, providing strategies to manage hyperactivity and improve compliance. It emphasizes the unique strengths of children with ADHD, such as hyperfocus, resilience, and creativity, while offering practical tools and activities to support their development. The playbook encourages a positive and understanding approach to ADHD, focusing on celebrating children's strengths and providing tailored support.

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Ali Mesum
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
148 views77 pages

Playbook For ADHD, Compliance & Hyperactivity (4-8 Yrs)

The document is a playbook titled 'Super Skills for Super Kids' aimed at parents and educators of children aged 4-8 with ADHD, providing strategies to manage hyperactivity and improve compliance. It emphasizes the unique strengths of children with ADHD, such as hyperfocus, resilience, and creativity, while offering practical tools and activities to support their development. The playbook encourages a positive and understanding approach to ADHD, focusing on celebrating children's strengths and providing tailored support.

Uploaded by

Ali Mesum
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 77

Super Squads

Conquering
Compliance & Hyperactivity
(Age 4-8)

A Guide for Parents & Teachers


Table of Content

The Purpose of This Playbook………………………………………………………………………………..7

How to Use This Playbook Effectively………………………………………………………………..8

Understanding ADHD in Young Children……………………………………………………………….9

What is ADHD?.....................................................................................................9

Understanding ADHD: Shifting Perspectives for Better Support……………..11

Hyperactivity & Compliance: What They Really Mean……………………………………14

Hyperactivity: The Supercharged Engine! ……………………………………………..….14

Compliance: The Secret Mission to Follow Directions!...............................15

Superpowers of ADHD: 6 Amazing Strengths!..............................16

Hyperfocus – The Power of Ultimate Concentration!..................................17

Resilience – The Bounce-Back Ability!.............................................................18

Creativity – The Superpower of Thinking Outside the Box!......................19

Social Smarts – The Gift of Gab!.....................................................................20

Spontaneity & Courage – Adventure Awaits! ……………………………………………..21

High Energy – The Supercharged Battery!....................................................22

Coping Strategies for Parents………………………………………………………………………….….23

Establish Clear and Consistent Routines………………………………….………………….24

Use Visual Aids and Tools……………………………………………………………………………….25

Organize the Environment………………………………………………………………………………26

Simplify Instructions…………………………………………………………………………….………...28

Build in Movement Breaks………………………………………………………………………….….…29

Minimize Distractions……………………………………………………………………………………….30
The 4 Types of Positive Reinforcement!.....................................31

Natural Reinforcers – Everyday Wins………………………….………………………………32

Social Reinforcers – Cheers & Praise!.............................................................33

Tangible Reinforcers – Real Rewards!.............................................................34

Token Reinforcers – Earning Points for Prizes!............................................35

Supporting Students with ADHD: A Guide for Educators…………………………….37

Tips for classroom success………………………………………………………………………….…38

Activities to Foster Compliance in Children…………………………………………………….…41

Structured Routines & Schedule Activities……………………………………….….43

Activity: "Mission Possible – Daily Task Challenge" 🏆…………………43

Activity: "Beat the Timer".....................................................................43

Sensory-Based Compliance Activities…………………………………………………………44

Activity: "Sensory Task Boxes".............................................................44

Activity: "The Quiet Challenge".............................................................44

Positive Reinforcement & Communication Techniques……………………..…..45

Activity: "Secret Star Reward System"..............................................45

Activity: "Magical Listening Wand".......................................................45

Physical Activities for Compliance……………………………………………………………….46

Activity : Follow the Leader Challenge………………………………………………46

Activity : Compliance Treasure Hunt…………………………………………………47

Activity: Role-Playing Games……………………………………………………………….48

Activity : Stop & Go - Red Light, Green Light…………………………………49

Activity: The Secret Code Spy Mission……………………………………………50

Activity: Mystery Box Task Game……………………………………………………..51

Activity : Obstacle Course of Instructions ……………………………………52

Activity: Storytime Role-Play …………………………………………………………...53


Activity : Color-Coded Fun………………………………………………………………54

Activity : The Patience Maze…………………………………………………………55

Activities to Manage Hyperactivity in Children…………………………………………….57

The Importance of Calming Techniques for Kids with ADHD……….59

Activity: Belly Buddy Breathing…………………………………………………….59

Activity: Flower Breathing……………………………………………………………..61

Activity: Box Breathing…………………………………………………………………..62

Sensory play for children with ADHD………………………………………………….63

Modeling playdough or clay……………………………………………………….…….63

Finger Painting…………………………………………………………………………….…….64

Exploring sensory bins……………………………………………………………….……64

Going on a nature scavenger hunt…………………………………………….…..65

Helping garden……………………………………………………………………….…………65

Physical Activities for children with ADHD………………………………….….66

Activity: Animal Walk Races………………………………………………….….….66

Activity: Balloon Keep-Up………………………………………………….…………..67

Activity: Freeze Dance…………………………………………………………….….…68

School-Based Games………………………………………………………………………….…….69

Activity: Movement Stations…………………………………………………….….69

Activity: Desk Drumming……………………………………………………………….70

Activity: Brain Break Yoga…………………………………………………………….71

Activity: You Can Learn to Sit Still…………………………………………….72

Activity: Balancing Act………………………………………………………………….73

Certificate of Appreciation…………………………………………………………………….…………75

References……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..77
Preface

Welcome to "Super Skills for Super Kids," a playbook designed with you and

your amazing child in mind! If you're a parent, caregiver, or educator of a child

aged 4-8 who experiences the boundless energy of hyperactivity and the

occasional challenges of compliance, you've come to the right place.

We understand that raising a child with ADHD can feel like navigating a

whirlwind of creativity, enthusiasm, and, yes, sometimes, a little bit of chaos.

But within that whirlwind lies incredible potential. Children with ADHD possess

unique strengths – a vibrant imagination, a contagious zest for life, and a

remarkable ability to think outside the box.

This playbook isn't about changing who your child is. It's about providing you

with practical tools and strategies to help them channel their energy, build

essential skills, and thrive. We believe in celebrating their strengths while

offering gentle guidance to navigate the challenges that come with ADHD.

This playbook is a starting point, a guide to help you discover what works best

for your child. Embrace the joy, celebrate the small victories, and know that

with patience, understanding, and a little bit of "super skill" building, your child

can reach their full potential. Let's embark on this adventure together, and

help your super kid shine!


5
Author’s Note

Hello! This is Zobia & Samia and we're so glad you've picked up "Super Skills for

Super Kids." This playbook is a labor of love, born from our passion for supporting

children and families navigating the unique journey of ADHD.

As we were delved into creating this resource, we were inspired by the incredible

resilience and potential we see in every child. We understand that parenting or caring

for a child with ADHD can sometimes feel overwhelming, but we also know that with

the right tools and a compassionate approach, amazing things can happen.

We've poured our hearts into making this playbook practical, accessible, and filled

with strategies that we believe can make a real difference. Our goal is to empower

you with the knowledge and confidence to help your child thrive.

We believe in celebrating the strengths of children with ADHD – their creativity,

their energy, and their unique perspectives. We hope this playbook serves as a guide,

a source of encouragement, and a reminder that you are not alone.

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey. We wish you and your super kid

all the best!

Warmly,

Zobia Fayyaz & Samia Amjad


6
The Purpose of This Playbook

This playbook is designed to equip caregivers, educators, and therapists with practical

tools and structured activities to improve compliance and manage hyperactivity in

children with ADHD. The strategies outlined in this manual focus on:

✅ Encouraging task completion through structured routines and visual supports.

✅ Helping children develop impulse control using engaging, movement-based

activities.

✅ Teaching self-regulation skills that allow children to manage their energy levels

effectively.

✅ Reinforcing positive behaviors through rewards and motivation-based

interventions.

By using a combination of play-based techniques, behavioral strategies, and positive

reinforcement, this playbook provides a developmentally appropriate approach to

addressing the core challenges of ADHD. Instead of attempting to suppress

hyperactivity, the goal is to channel it productively while fostering compliance in a

way that aligns with a child’s natural energy levels.

7
How to Use This Playbook Effectively

● Consistency is Key – Strategies should be applied regularly in different

environments ( home, school, therapy).

● Keep Instructions Simple – Use short, clear sentences and visual support.

● Incorporate Movement – Allow children to move while learning rather than

forcing them to sit still.

● Use Positive Reinforcement – Reward progress rather than focusing on

mistakes.

● Be Patient & Flexible – Each child is different; adapt techniques based on their

needs.

The following sections will provide specific activities, behavior management

techniques, and structured interventions that can be easily implemented at home, in

school, or in therapy sessions. With patience, consistency, and the right strategies,

children with ADHD can build essential skills for success while embracing their unique

strengths.

8
1. Understanding ADHD in Young Children

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition

characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity

that interfere with daily functioning and development. It typically begins in childhood

and can continue into adulthood, affecting academic, social, and occupational areas of

life. Children with ADHD may struggle to focus, follow instructions, stay organized, or

sit still, often appearing restless or overly energetic. The exact cause is not fully

understood, but it is believed to involve genetic, neurological, and environmental

factors. While ADHD cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with a

combination of behavioral strategies, therapy, medication, and lifestyle

Adjustments.

ADHD is typically categorized into three subtypes:

1. Predominantly Inattentive Type – Characterized by difficulty maintaining

focus, forgetfulness, and trouble following instructions.

2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – Marked by excessive movement,

impulsivity, and difficulty remaining still.

3. Combined Type – A mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive traits.

9
For young children aged 4-8, ADHD is often most noticeable through behaviors such

as difficulty following rules, excessive fidgeting, interrupting conversations, and

struggling with transitions between activities. These challenges can impact their

ability to function in structured environments, such as school or home, making it

essential to provide targeted interventions that encourage positive behaviors.

10
Understanding ADHD: Shifting Perspectives for Better Support

Instead of solely focusing on outward behaviors and assuming intentionality, which can

lead to misunderstandings and inconsistent support, we need to embrace a deeper

understanding. A Neurodevelopmental Perspective recognizes that ADHD is rooted in

brain function and development. This perspective values individual differences,

promotes consistent and tailored support, and acknowledges that challenges with

focus, impulsivity, and emotional regulation are often not readily controlled. It

encourages us to provide individualized instruction that caters to diverse learning

styles and fosters a sense of belonging and success.

By shifting our focus from behavior modification to genuine understanding and

acceptance, we can create environments where individuals with ADHD feel truly

supported and empowered to reach their full potential.

11
12
13
Hyperactivity & Compliance:

What They Really Mean

Hyperactivity: The Supercharged Engine! 🚀

Think of a child with ADHD like a race car with a turbo engine—it’s always ready to go,

go, go! But without clear tracks to follow, that energy can lead to crashes (or running

around the classroom!).

📌 Examples of Hyperactivity:

● 󰣗 The child just sat down for storytime, but his legs keep bouncing like he’s

ready to pedal a bike!

● 🎤 The child is so excited about her idea that she blurts it out before raising her

hand!

● 󰝊 During a quiet moment, the child suddenly jumps up and starts spinning like a

superhero on a mission!

14
Compliance: The Secret Mission to Follow Directions! 󰡷

Compliance means following instructions and rules, but for kids with ADHD, it can feel

like a tricky puzzle. Their brains are great at exploring ideas, but remembering steps

and staying on task can be tough.

📌 Examples of Compliance Challenges:

● 🎮 You ask a child to put away his toys, but halfway through, he gets distracted

by a cool LEGO piece and starts building instead!

● 🎭 She is supposed to sit in the circle, but she’s busy pretending to be a cat

instead!

● 🏆 You tell the child that it’s time to clean up, but he keeps playing because

“he’s about to win the game!”

15
Superpowers of ADHD: 6 Amazing Strengths! 🚀

ADHD isn’t just about challenges—it comes with incredible strengths that make kids

with ADHD unique and full of potential! Many researchers believe that these

strengths come from neurological differences in the ADHD brain, particularly in how

it processes dopamine, the brain’s motivation and reward chemical. Instead of viewing

ADHD as a deficit, many experts argue that it’s simply a different way of

thinking—one that comes with some pretty awesome abilities!

Let’s explore these superpowers and how they help kids shine! 🌟

16
1. 󰭉 Hyperfocus – The Power of Ultimate Concentration! 🎯

ADHD is often associated with lack of focus, but did you know that kids with ADHD

can actually focus better than most people when they’re interested in something? This

is called hyperfocus, a state where they become so deeply engaged in a task that they

tune out everything else.

🔬 Theory: Research suggests that dopamine irregularities in the ADHD brain make

it harder to focus on boring tasks but easier to get "locked in" when something is

exciting.

💡 Example: When he starts building with LEGO, he won’t stop until his spaceship is

perfect—every little detail just right! 🚀

How it helps: This ability makes kids with ADHD excellent problem-solvers, artists,

and deep thinkers—when they find their passion, they excel!

17
2. 💪 Resilience – The Bounce-Back Ability! 🌟

Kids with ADHD face daily challenges—whether it’s forgetting instructions, struggling

to sit still, or feeling overwhelmed. But these experiences actually help them build

resilience, or the ability to bounce back after setbacks. They learn to keep going, no

matter what!

🧠 Theory: Studies show that children with ADHD develop strong emotional

regulation skills over time because they constantly adapt to challenges. Their brains

become more flexible and problem-solving oriented.

💡 Example: She struggled with learning a new dance move, but she kept practicing.

Now, she’s the best dancer in her class! 💃

How it helps: This persistence makes them brave, adaptable, and ready for anything!

18
3. 🎨 Creativity – The Superpower of Thinking Outside the

Box! 🎭

ADHD brains don’t just follow the usual path—they create NEW paths! People with

ADHD often think in big, imaginative, and unconventional ways, making them amazing

artists, inventors, and problem-solvers.

🎭 Theory: Research shows that ADHD is linked to divergent thinking, a type of

creativity that helps people come up with multiple solutions to a problem instead of

just one.

💡 Example: He turned a cardboard box into a castle, a spaceship, and a pirate

ship—all in one afternoon! 🏰🚀󰬬

How it helps: Their creativity helps them solve problems in unique ways and bring

fresh ideas to the world!

19
4. 🗣 Social Smarts – The Gift of Gab! 🗨

Many kids with ADHD are natural storytellers and love making others laugh. They

often have strong emotional intelligence and a deep ability to connect with people.

💬 Theory: Studies suggest that some kids with ADHD have higher levels of social

intelligence and empathy, making them charismatic and emotionally aware of others'

feelings.

💡 Example: She always knows how to cheer up a friend with a funny joke or a BIG

bear hug! 🐻💛

How it helps: These kids often become great leaders, entertainers, and friends

because of their ability to connect with others.

20
5. ⚡ Spontaneity & Courage – Adventure Awaits! 󰣘

People with ADHD are known for being fearless, spontaneous, and full of adventure!

They love new experiences and don’t get stuck overthinking decisions.

🏆 Theory: ADHD is linked to higher risk-taking behavior—which, when channeled

correctly, leads to bravery, curiosity, and innovation.

💡 Example: When a talent show was announced at school, He jumped on stage without

hesitation and wowed the crowd with his beatboxing skills! 🎤🔥

How it helps: Their boldness makes them natural explorers, athletes, and innovators!

21
6. 🏃 High Energy – The Supercharged Battery! ⚡

One of the main characteristics of ADHD is hyperactivity, but instead of seeing it as

a problem, think of it as an unlimited energy source! This energy makes kids with

ADHD great at sports, dance, and other active pursuits.

🏃 Theory: ADHD brains have higher dopamine and adrenaline fluctuations, making it

harder to sit still but perfect for activities that require movement and quick thinking.

💡 Example: He could run five laps around the playground while others were still

warming up! 󰝋💨

How it helps: This energy makes kids with ADHD fantastic athletes, performers, and

adventure-seekers!

22
Coping Strategies for Parents

Parenting a child with ADHD is like riding a roller coaster—thrilling,


unpredictable, and sometimes a little exhausting! One moment, your
child is bursting with creativity and energy, and the next, they’re
bouncing off the walls (literally!). It’s a journey filled with unique
challenges, but also incredible moments of joy and discovery. While it
may feel overwhelming at times, understanding your child’s needs and
finding the right strategies can make all the difference. With a little
patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humor, you can navigate this
23
adventure with confidence and connection!
1. Establish Clear and Consistent Routines

● Daily Schedule:

○ Create a visual schedule for the day with activities like waking up, meals, homework,

playtime, and bedtime.

○ Use pictures or color codes for younger children to make the schedule easy to

follow.

● Predictable Transitions:

○ Give warnings before transitions

(e.g., "In 5 minutes, we’ll start homework").

24
Make it colourful and fun so children don’t view organisation as a task.
2. Use Visual Aids and Tools

● Task Charts:

○ Create chore charts with checkboxes or stickers to track completed tasks.

○ Post rules and expectations in visible areas, such as “Homework comes before

screen time” or “Brush teeth before bed.”

○ Use reminder charts for morning and bedtime routines.

● Timers and Clocks:

○ Use visual timers or digital clocks to show how long tasks (e.g., homework, playtime)

will last.

25
3. Organize the Environment

● Declutter:

○ Keep spaces clean and organized.

○ Store toys and supplies

in labeled bins or boxes.

● Designate Specific Areas:

○ Let the child participate in creating their routines or organizing their space. This

makes them feel more responsible and motivated to follow through.

○ Create a dedicated space for homework, free of distractions like noise or clutter.

○ Have a separate area for play to clearly distinguish work from fun.

○ Calm Down Zones: A calm down zone could be anywhere (e.g. a spare bedroom, or a

quiet corner of the kitchen). Stock it with anything helpful and appeasing a blanket, a

box of fidgets, with calming music. This area should help the child take some deep

breaths, fully experience her emotions, whether negative or positive, and learn to

self-soothe when anger starts to bubble up (Koscinski, 2018).

26
27
A place for your child to freely experience their emotions
4. Simplify Instructions

● Break Down Tasks:

○ Give one instruction at a time instead of overwhelming them with multiple directions.

○ Use simple and clear language.

● Use Visual or Written Instructions:

○ Pair verbal instructions with pictures or written steps for clarity.

28
5. Build in Movement Breaks

● Incorporate short movement breaks during homework or chores to let the child

release energy.

● Provide options like jumping jacks, stretches, or a quick run around the house.

29
6. Minimize Distractions

● Turn off TVs, phones, or other electronics during homework or structured

activities.

● Use noise-canceling headphones or white noise if external sounds are distracting.

30
Power-Up Your Child’s Motivation:

The 4 Types of Positive Reinforcement! 🚀

31
Every child loves a little motivation, and positive reinforcement is like a
superpower that helps them stay on track! Think of it as a way to reward
good behavior, making it more likely to happen again. There are four types
of positive reinforcement, and using a mix of them can keep things fun
and exciting for children with ADHD.

1. 🌱 Natural Reinforcers – Everyday Wins!

These are rewards that happen naturally when a child puts in effort,
teaching them that hard work leads to good outcomes.

⭐ Example: After practicing his book reading daily, He finally memorizes


a new chapter. He feels proud and accomplished, realizing that his hard
work is paying off! 📖✨

⭐ Example: The child decides to clean up her toys without being asked.
Later, she finds her missing bracelet under the couch—a natural reward
for tidying up! 💎😊

💡 Why It Works: Kids with ADHD often struggle with long-term


cause-and-effect thinking. Pointing out these natural rewards helps them
see the benefits of positive behavior!

32
2. 😊 Social Reinforcers – Cheers & Praise!

Nothing feels better than recognition and encouragement from people


around us! Social reinforcers involve kind words, smiles, and positive
attention to make a child feel appreciated.

⭐ Example: After sharing his lunch with a friend, the teacher says,
“Amazing! That was so kind of you. Your friend is really happy you
shared.” 🍎💖

⭐ Example: She puts extra effort into decorating the Holiday banner
for her classroom, and her parents proudly take a picture of it and send it
to the family group chat. She feels special and encouraged to keep
creating! 🎨🌙

💡 Why It Works: ADHD kids thrive on connection and encouragement.


A simple high-five, a hug, or a “Amazing , well done!” can be super
motivating!

33
3. 🎁 Tangible Reinforcers – Real Rewards!

Sometimes, a little physical reward helps reinforce good habits. These


reinforcers include treats, toys, stickers, or special privileges that
children receive after completing a task.

⭐ Example: After finishing all his homework, He gets to choose his


favorite bedtime story about the Superheroes as a reward. 📚✨

⭐ Example: She helps clean up the playroom, and her mom gives her a
special sticker for her reward chart. Once she collects 10 stickers, she
earns a trip to the ice cream shop! 🍦🌟

💡 Why It Works: ADHD brains respond strongly to immediate


rewards, so tangible reinforcers help them stay motivated while working
toward bigger goals!

34
4. 🎟 Token Reinforcers – Earning Points for
Prizes!

Think of these like video game points—kids earn tokens or stars for good
behavior, which they can trade in for rewards later!

⭐ Example: Every time the child finishes a chore, he earns a gold star.
After 10 stars, he gets to choose a fun family outing to the park!
🌳⭐

⭐ Example: In class, She gets a "focus point" each time she completes a
task without distractions. At the end of the week, she can trade her
points for extra recess time! 󰝋🎈

💡 Why It Works: Token systems break big goals into small,


manageable steps, helping ADHD kids stay on track and excited about
reaching their goals!

35
✨ Making Positive Reinforcement Work for Your
Child!

The secret to success? Find what excites your child! Some kids love
verbal praise, while others are motivated by earning rewards. Try mixing
up different types of reinforcement to keep things engaging and
effective.

With the right encouragement, every child can stay motivated, build
confidence, and develop positive habits—one MashaAllah, high-five,
sticker, or gold star at a time! 🚀🌟

36
Supporting Students with ADHD:

A Guide for Educators

For teachers, helping children manage their ADHD symptoms can


present a challenge. Most children with ADHD are not enrolled in
special education classes but do need extra assistance on a daily basis.

Positive discipline practices at school can help make school routines


more predictable and achievable for children. Children with ADHD
benefit when schools use positive rather than punitive disciplinary
strategies.
37
Close collaboration between the school, parents, and healthcare providers

will ensure the child gets the right support.

Here are some tips for classroom success:

Communication

● Give frequent feedback and attention to positive behavior.

● Be sensitive to the influence of ADHD on emotions, such as self-esteem issues or

difficulty regulating feelings.

● Provide extra warnings before transitions and changes in routines.

● Understand that children with ADHD may become deeply absorbed in activities that

interest them (hyper-focus) and may need extra assistance shifting their attention.

38
Assignments and tasks

● Make assignments clear—check with the student to see if they understand what they

need to do.

● Provide choices to show mastery (for example, let the student choose among written

essay, oral report, online quiz, or hands-on project.

● Make sure assignments are not long and repetitive. Shorter assignments that provide

a little challenge without being too hard may work well.

● Allow breaks—for children with ADHD, paying attention takes extra effort and can be

very tiring.

● Allow time to move and exercise.

● Minimize distractions in the classroom.

● Use organizational tools, such as a homework folder, to limit the number of things the

child has to track.

39
Develop a plan that fits the child

● Observe and talk with the student about what helps or distracts them (for example,

fidget tools, limiting eye contact when listening, background music, or moving while

learning can be beneficial or distracting, depending on the child).

● Communicate with parents on a regular basis.

● Involve the school counselor or psychologist.

40
Activities to Foster

Compliance
in Children

Ages 4-8

Each activity includes a rationale and clear instructions.

41
Fun & Engaging Activities to Improve Compliance
in Children with ADHD

Helping children with ADHD follow instructions and complete tasks doesn’t have
to feel like a battle—it can be fun and engaging! Using structured routines,
movement-based activities, and creative play, you can boost compliance in a
way that feels natural and enjoyable for kids. Below are exciting activities that
incorporate structure, movement, sensory play, and positive reinforcement to
encourage children to listen, follow directions, and complete tasks effectively.

42
📅 1. Structured Routines & Schedule Activities

✅ Activity: "Mission Possible – Daily Task


Challenge" 🏆
● How to Play: Turn daily routines into a mission or challenge! Create a
visual checklist (e.g., "Brush teeth ✔, Get dressed ✔, Make bed ✔") and
let the child earn a sticker or star for completing each step.
● Example: "Your mission is to complete all morning tasks before the timer
runs out! If you finish in time, you unlock a special high-five or an extra 5
minutes of playtime!"
● Why It Works: Turns routines into a game, making compliance exciting
rather than a struggle!

✅ Activity: "Beat the Timer" ⏳


● How to Play: Set a visual timer (e.g., sand timer, digital clock) for small
tasks like putting on shoes or cleaning up toys. Challenge the child to
finish before time runs out!
● Example: "Can you get your shoes on before the 3-minute timer beeps?
Let’s see how fast you can do it!"
● Why It Works: Encourages task completion without feeling like a demand!

43
🎨 2. Sensory-Based Compliance Activities

✅ Activity: "Sensory Task Boxes" 📦


● How to Play: Place small tasks or chores (e.g., sorting socks, picking up
toys) in different sensory bins filled with sand, rice, or fabric textures. The
child must pull out a task and complete it!
● Example: "Reach into the bin and pull out your mystery task! What does it
say? ‘Put away 3 books’—great, let’s do it!"
● Why It Works: Keeps kids engaged by adding a tactile, playful element to
following instructions!

✅ Activity: "The Quiet Challenge" 🤫


● How to Play: Give the child a simple task (e.g., "Put the toys in the basket")
and see if they can complete it without making a sound.
● Example: "Hey, can you be a sneaky ninja and clean up the blocks without
making a single noise?"
● Why It Works: Encourages focus, listening, and completing tasks without
distractions!

44
⭐ 3. Positive Reinforcement & Communication
Techniques

✅ Activity: "Secret Star Reward System" 🌟


● How to Play: Use a small, secret notebook where the child earns stars for
following instructions. At the end of the day, count the stars together and
celebrate progress!
● Example: "Hey, let’s see how many secret stars you earned today! Wow, five
stars for great listening—amazing!"
● Why It Works: Encourages self-motivation and accountability!

✅ Activity: "Magical Listening Wand" 🪄


● How to Play: Use a toy wand or flashlight and "activate" it before giving
instructions. The child must make eye contact and pause what they’re
doing before you speak.
● Example: "Let’s turn on the magic listening wand! Now that it’s on, here’s
your task—pick up the red blocks first!"
● Why It Works: Teaches active listening and focus before receiving
instructions!

45
4. Physical Activities for Compliance

Activity : Follow the Leader Challenge 🎯

🎯 **Objective:** Teach children to follow instructions and improve listening


skills.

📜 **How to Play:**

· ✔ Choose a child or adult as the leader (*Super Leader*).


· ✔ The leader gives simple commands such as *'Jump three times,'*
*'Touch your nose,'* or *'Hop on one foot.'*
· ✔ The child must listen carefully and follow the commands exactly.
· ✔ Add fun challenges like doing the action in slow motion or at
different speeds.
· ✔ If the child follows three commands in a row correctly, reward them
with stickers or a high five. 🎉

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Activity : Compliance Treasure Hunt 󰬬

🎯 **Objective:** Help kids follow multi-step instructions and build patience.

📜 **How to Play:**

· ✔ Create a simple treasure map and write down 3-5 clues leading to
hidden treats.
· ✔ Hide small prizes in different locations around the room.
· ✔ Give one clue at a time, only providing the next instruction when the
previous one is completed.
· ✔ Reward children with a small treat upon successfully finding the
treasure!

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Activity . 🎭 Role-Playing Games (Teacher &
Student, Chef & Assistant, etc.)

🎯 Objective: Develop social skills, listening, and cooperative play.

🎲 How to Play:

● Pick fun roles like:


󰞹 Teacher & Student (One gives assignments, the other follows.)
󰠉 Chef & Assistant (One says, “Pass me the flour! 🍞,” and the other
follows!)
● The child must listen and follow instructions!
● Switch roles so the child gets to be in charge!

🔥 Fun Twist: Use real costumes 🎭 and props for a full experience

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Activity : Stop & Go - Red Light, Green Light
🚦

🎯 **Objective:** Teach kids impulse control with a fun movement game.

📜 **How to Play:**

· ✔ Choose a leader and have the other kids line up.


· ✔ The leader calls out 'Green Light' 🚦 – Kids move forward.
· ✔ The leader calls out 'Red Light' 🛑 – Kids must freeze in place.
· ✔ Change the rules by adding 'Yellow Light' ⚠ where kids must
move slowly.
· ✔ If a child moves after 'Red Light,' they go back to the start!
· ✔ Celebrate the best listeners with fun rewards.

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Activity: The Secret Code Spy Mission
🕵

🎯 **Objective:** Teach kids to listen carefully and follow step-by-step


instructions.

📜 **How to Play:**

· ✔ Choose a 'secret agent' and give them a mission.


· ✔ The mission consists of multiple steps. Example:
· ✔ - Step 1: Find the hidden key under the chair.
· ✔ - Step 2: Walk quietly to the door.
· ✔ - Step 3: Whisper the secret password to the teacher.
· ✔ Mission complete! The secret agent gets a fun reward.

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Activity: Mystery Box Task Game 🎁

🎯 Objective: Build excitement while reinforcing listening and task


completion.

🔹 How to Play:

1. Prepare a box with folded task cards inside.


2. Each child takes turns pulling a card and following the task.
3. Example tasks:
○ "Touch your toes 5 times"
○ "Bring me something blue"
○ "Draw a happy face"
4. Celebrate when each child completes the task correctly! 🎉

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Activity : Obstacle Course of Instructions 🎯

🎯 Objective: Strengthen listening, attention to detail, and task completion.

🔹 How to Play:

1. Set up a mini obstacle course with different stations (e.g., jump over
a pillow, crawl under a chair, hop 3 times).
2. Give children step-by-step instructions before they start.
3. Have them repeat the instructions back to check understanding.
4. Encourage and praise them as they complete the course
successfully!

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Activity: Storytime Role-Play 📖🎭

🎯 Objective: Encourage listening and following multi-step instructions.

🔹 How to Play:

1. Read a short story where characters follow instructions (e.g., The Little
Red Hen).
2. Pause and ask the child to act out what the characters are doing.
○ Example: “The puppy goes to bed. Can you lie down like the puppy?”
3. Praise them for acting out the correct actions! 🎉

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Activity : Color-Coded Fun

🎯 Objective: Improve memory, attention, and rule-following.

🎲 How to Play:

● Assign colors to actions:


🔴 Red = Clap 👏
🟢 Green = Jump 󰤓
🔵 Blue = Spin 🔄
● Call out random colors, and the child must do the right action!
● Increase the challenge by calling two colors at a time!

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Activity : The Patience Maze 🌀

🎯 Objective: Improve focus, impulse control, and patience.

🔹 How to Play:

1. Give the child a simple maze to complete.


2. Challenge them to complete it using the opposite hand (left hand for
right-handed children and vice versa).
3. If they go outside the lines, they must erase and start over.
4. Encourage them to go slowly and carefully to finish successfully!

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Final Thoughts 🌟
Compliance isn’t about forcing kids to follow
instructions—it’s about engaging, motivating, and
making tasks feel fun and rewarding! By adding
movement, creativity, sensory elements, and positive
reinforcement, children with ADHD can learn to listen,
follow directions, and complete tasks successfully—all
while having a blast! 🚀🎉

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Activities to Manage

Hyperactivity
in Children

Ages 4-8

Each activity includes a rationale and clear instructions.


57
Fun and Engaging Games and Activities to Manage Hyperactivity

in Children with ADHD

Children with ADHD have boundless energy, and instead of suppressing it, the

key is to channel it in fun and productive ways! These games help children

improve focus, self-regulation, and impulse control, all while keeping them

engaged and entertained. Whether at home or in the classroom, these activities

provide the right balance of movement, structure, and fun! 58


1. The Importance of Calming Techniques for
Kids with ADHD

🎯 Objective: Children with ADHD often struggle with impulsivity,


hyperactivity, and difficulty focusing. By teaching them calming techniques,
parents can help manage these symptoms effectively. Moreover, these
techniques can promote emotional well-being, reduce stress levels, and
enhance overall quality of life for children with ADHD.

1. Activity: Belly Buddy Breathing

Invite your child to lie down comfortably and place a small stuffed animal
on their belly. Instruct them to take slow, deep breaths in through their
nose, allowing their belly to rise and the stuffed animal to “ride the waves.”
As they exhale through their mouth, encourage them to imagine the animal
gently descending. This exercise promotes deep relaxation and focuses
their attention on the soothing rhythm of their breath.

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2. Sensory play for children with ADHD

🎯 Objective: Sensory play helps children with ADHD regulate their sensory

input and improve focus..

Sensory activities are those that engage your child’s smell, sight, taste,

touch, or hearing.

● Modeling play dough or clay: Make homemade play dough or use

store-bought to create shapes and promote imagination.

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● Finger painting: Provide different colors and papers to create

artwork.

● Exploring sensory bins: Fill tubs with items of different colors, shapes,

and textures for children to explore.

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● Going on a nature scavenger hunt: Ask children to find specific items
in nature, like types of rocks, trees, or animals.

● Helping garden: Have children dig in the garden alongside you or

help to place seeds and plants.

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3. Physical Activities for children with ADHD

Animal Walk Races 🦁🐸🐰

How to Play: Call out an animal, and the child must move like that animal (e.g.,

"Hop like a frog!" "Crawl like a bear!"). You can set a short obstacle course to

make it more fun!

Why It Works:

✔ Provides a structured movement break

✔ Helps with impulse control as they wait for instructions

✔ Develops gross motor skills

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4. Balloon Keep-Up 🎈
How to Play: The goal is to keep the balloon from touching the ground by
hitting it with hands, elbows, or even their head. Add challenges like using only
one hand or playing in teams!

Why It Works:
✔ Strengthens focus and coordination
✔ Helps with self-regulation through controlled movements
✔ Encourages social interaction if played with other

67
5. Freeze Dance 🎶🕺

How to Play: Play fun, energetic music and let the child dance freely. When the
music stops, they must freeze like a statue!

Why It Works:

✔ Teaches self-regulation and impulse control

✔ Improves body awareness and listening skills

✔ Gives them a safe way to burn excess energy

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🏫 School-Based Games

6. Movement Stations 🚀󰝋

How to Play: Set up different movement stations in the classroom (e.g., jumping
jacks, toe touches, spinning in place). Every few minutes, students rotate to a new
station.

Why It Works:
✔ Provides structured movement breaks to prevent restlessness
✔ Keeps kids engaged while expelling energy
✔ Improves focus when they return to seated tasks

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7. Desk Drumming 🥁✋

How to Play: Teach kids a simple rhythm using desk taps and claps. Have them
repeat it back or create their own patterns!

Why It Works:
✔ Provides a controlled way to fidget
✔ Enhances focus through structured movement
✔ Helps calm excessive energy in a fun way

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8. Brain Break Yoga 󰩔🌿

How to Play: Guide children through fun yoga poses like "Tree Pose" (stand on
one leg) or "Lion’s Breath" (take a deep breath and roar!).

Why It Works:
✔ Promotes relaxation and mindfulness
✔ Enhances balance and coordination
✔ Helps reset attention before continuing lessons

71
Activity 9: You Can Learn to Sit Still 🪑

🎯 Objective: Teach body control through simple isometric exercises.

🔹 How to Play:

1. Press Hands Together – Clasp hands and push them against each other
for 10 seconds.
2. Knee Press – Push knees together for 10 seconds.
3. Table Press – Press hands firmly on the table for 10 seconds.
4. Foot Press – Press feet onto the floor firmly for 10 seconds.
🏆 Encourage children to focus on how their body feels while staying still.

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Activity 10: Balancing Act

🎯 Goal: Develop body control and attention.


🔹 How to Play:

● Have the child walk across a line of tape on the floor while balancing
an object (e.g., beanbag on their head).
● Make it fun by timing them or playing soft music.
🌟 Why It Works: Requires controlled movement and
concentration.

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Final Thoughts 🌟
Hyperactivity isn't a problem—it’s untapped energy
waiting to be directed! These games blend fun with
skill-building, ensuring children stay active while
learning focus, self-control, and patience. Whether at
home or school, structured movement-based activities
can transform restlessness into productive
engagement—and let’s be honest, they’re just plain
fun! 🎉

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Final Thoughts

Congratulations, Super Skills Champion!

🎉 You Did It! 🎉

You've worked hard, had fun, and learned amazing new skills along the
way. Remember, every small step brings big success, and you are full of
incredible potential! Keep practicing, exploring, and growing—because you
are truly a Super Kid! 💪🌟

To Parents, Caregivers, and Educators:

Thank you for joining this journey to support and empower your child.
Your dedication, patience, and love make a world of difference. Every
activity completed, every effort made, and every little success
celebrated is a step toward a brighter future.

✅ Keep encouraging progress, no matter how small.


✅ Adapt these activities to fit your child’s unique strengths.
✅ Celebrate achievements and embrace challenges together.

GOOD LUCK!
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References

Flynn, L. (2024, December 26). Using a Strength-Based Approach to Empower Learners with

ADHD. OT4ADHD.

https://ot4adhd.com/2024/01/02/using-a-strength-based-approach-to-empower-learners-with

-adhd/

Inattentive ADHD. (2025, January 24). Cleveland Clinic.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15253-inattentive-adhd

Fireman, P. (2025, January 2). 6 Strengths and Benefits of ADHD. Children's Health Council.

https://www.chconline.org/resourcelibrary/6-strengths-and-benefits-of-adhd/

Kids Health Info : ADHD – ways to help children at school and home. (n.d.).

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/ADHD_ways_to_help_children_at_school_and_ho

me/

Phifer, L. W., Crowder, A. K., Elsenraat, T., & Hull, R. (2017). CBT toolbox for children &

adolescents: Over 200 worksheets & exercises for trauma, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression

& conduct disorders. PESI Publishing & Media.

Snowden's. (2019). ADHD workbook for kids: The right tips for organizing solutions, nutrition

plan, time management, learning tools for inattentive people, exercises to help children to

self-regulate and focus.

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