- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Harriet S. Worobey, M.A. Early Childhood Educator Director, the Nutritional Sciences Preschool | ||
 |
My 3-year-old is doing the things expected of a 5-year-old and is very hyperactive. Will teaching her more help calm her down?
I am very concerned by your use of the word "hyperactive." Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that needs to be diagnosed by a doctor or psychologist. It involves inattentiveness, impulsivity and excessive motor activity, but these factors and others must all be present for a true diagnosis. Often times, lay people use the phrase "hyperactive" for the normal exuberance, curiosity and activity of a preschooler. If you have reason to suspect that your child may have ADHD, you need to check with your pediatrician for a referral to a specialist, so that you will know exactly what you are dealing with. If your child has truly been diagnosed with ADHD, "teaching her more" will not be an easy solution for calming her down. I am not an advocate of drugs for young children (i.e. Ritalin), but a structured plan of learning and close consultation with a psychologist can come up with strategies to help your child.
If your child does not have ADHD and is merely an active child looking for more challenges, I would recommend hands-on, discovery-based learning. Worksheets and flashcards should not be a part of the active preschoolers learning plan. Normal 3- and 4-year-olds have difficulty sitting in one place for more than 10 minutes. Do not overdo time at the computer or watching videos. Try to find interesting activities that will challenge your child and give her the activity that she needs. Check out your local science museum, zoo or animal farm. Be sure that your child has enough fresh air and outdoor play each day. Have your child cut out magazine pictures to make an alphabet book or a special card for Grandma and Grandpa. Don't forget about music, dancing and indoor exercises. All of these activities will provide the activity she is looking for and also enhance her learning.
Preparing for Kindergarten Worksheets
Related Expert Q&A
- I sometimes feel guilty when I just let my children play and do not join in. Should I always participate in their playtime?
- Is TV really that bad for children? Should I really be concerned?
- My kids are couch potatoes. All they want to do is watch TV. What can I do?
- What should I do about my child's lisp?
- I have twins who need a little push in the self-confidence department. Any suggestions?
More Answers by this Expert
- We have two boys and are expecting another baby in April. What is the best way to share the news with them?
- What are some signs of stress to look for in a child's behavior when dealing with the death of a family, friend or relative?
- Is it OK for preschool-age children to drink high protein drinks for breakfast?
- I tried to interview a preschool teacher once, but she was too busy with the kids. Should I just forget interviewing her since she is obviously so focused on the kids?
- How do I ease separation anxiety in my child when I drop him off at preschool?