Yoga and ADHD

I don't have an ADHD child, so I can't speak about experience with that. I noticed that a couple people mentioned martial arts as a possible option and thought I'd share about that option. Our kids take Tae Kwon Do and there are several kids in their classes who are on the autism spectrum (especially Asperger's, but also other types). I have been hearing that TKD (and I'd imagine any martial art) is good for kids with autism. It seems to me that martial arts would be helpful for kids with ADHD for similar reasons: it's active, involves focus, develops self-control and discipline, provides a good physical workout, encourages body-mind connection and awareness. Same thing with dance. In any case (and in my perhaps uniformed opinion), I would think that she would benefit more from an activity where she has an instructor and other students working with her. Good luck and have fun with whatever you/she choose!

I am in karate, and I know that there are many ADHD people of all ages in martial arts because it helps them (me) focus during and after a session. I would guess yoga could do the same. It might depend on the style of yoga and your child. I would be prepared to try out more than one type or style before giving up on this idea.

Hi B.! I think yoga would be excellent for your child. I have been practicing and teaching yoga for many years and have taught children as well (different ages, abilities and backgrounds.) I have five boys. My oldest was diagnosed with adhd in the first grade. They are all very energetic, active boys and they all love yoga. Here is a link from Yoga Journal which has many different articles on the subject.
http://www.yogajournal.com/search?q=yoga+and+kids+with+adhd

I would recommend going to your library and checking out yoga dvds. I would check out different styles. Some are very slow and meditative styles and some are very energetic/athletic styles. Some are a combination of both. Your daughter can try these out in the privacy of your home. If you think it's going to be helpful then I would recommend finding a good teacher to help in making sure your child is doing everything safely.

Hope this helps and good luck!

I have no qualifications to say this at all...I am a huge yoga enthusiast and have been practicing for 15 years. My kids (5 and 3) sort of like it a little and will join me in some practices for a bit but I haven't pushed it. My personal opinion is that it would annoy the heck out of a child with ADHD. Not sure of your child's age, but if you could get your child to focus in yoga (difficult for my non ADHD kids) I don't think the focus would reach beyond the class. Just like when I haven't been faithful with my yoga, my mind goes back to scatterbrained in just a couple of days (sometimes quicker). I could be ABSOLUTELY TOTALLY WRONG, but that's my uninformed assumption. It's definitely worth a try though for a few weeks-it's great in so many ways. I would personally pick something more active like martial arts or dance. If she's older, like tween or teen, then yoga might be better on a deeper level.

Hi B.! YES YES and YES! Of course, it is still dependent on if your child wanting to BE there...LOL!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, I will send you a private message with my food recommendations for that.

B.
Family Success Coach