In theory, mindfulness sounds like the perfect solution to helping children that suffer from ADHD. Mindfulness helps us become more aware, it helps us focus, control our thoughts, and manage our emotions—things that those with ADHD have trouble with.
Today, people are trying to get away from using medication to treat their problems and turning to natural solutions like mindfulness and meditation, from pain management to anxiety disorders. People are beginning to learn that expensive (and often addictive) medications aren’t always the best answer. And parents of children with ADHD and beginning to think the same thing. So is mindfulness their answer?
Can Children with ADHD Learn Mindfulness?
If you’ve ever tried mindfulness training in the past, you’ve probably discovered that it’s a lot harder than it seems. Keeping your attention where it should be, being aware of what’s going on around you… it’s easier said than done. Our minds always want to jump to the next they, they’re always wandering. And for kids with ADHD, it’s even harder to control.
So is it even possible for anyone with ADHD to practice mindfulness? Yes, it is!
What do the studies say?
In a few studies, it’s been proven that it is possible for anyone with ADHD to use mindfulness training. Although the studies were small and non-randomized, they still showed promising results.
Children and their parents together completed 8 mindfulness sessions together, these trainings were made specifically with ADHD in mind, using short and fun exercises. At the end of the 8 sessions, children showed signs of improved self control, and parents felt more relaxed.
Although more research is still needed, the future looks promising!
Future Studies on Mindfulness and ADHD
A new project called MindChamp, which stands for Mindfulness for Children with ADHD and Mindful Parenting, aims to find out more. This study will be on a large scale and will be randomized to help improve upon the previous studies on the subject. Although the first results of the study should be expected in 2018, we’re betting the results will be positive!
Have you tried practicing mindfulness with your kids (with ADHD or not)? Did you have any success? We’ve rounded up a few mindfulness tools that kids will actually enjoy, check them out here.