Hyperactivity is a trait that we’re increasingly observing in young children. Those who have difficulty concentrating, display impulsivity, or show very high energy levels may need a slightly different approach in everyday situations. At TEQUESTA, however, we believe that individual support and appropriately tailored methods are the key to achieving balance and harmonious development for every Little One—including those with a more dynamic temperament.
What Is Hyperactivity?
Hyperactivity should not be regarded solely as a problem or an obstacle to proper development. Many children show excessive restlessness and can be impulsive, especially in their preschool years. The difference is that some little ones can calm down more easily on cue, while others need greater support in regulating their emotions. Hyperactivity often goes hand in hand with great curiosity about the world and openness to new experiences. It’s important to also see the potential in a child, who—with the right approach—can develop just as wonderfully as their calmer peers.
What Are the First Signs?
- Difficulty Concentrating
The child quickly gets bored with a given activity, sometimes even abandoning it before completion to move on to something else. - Impulsivity
The little one reacts instantly, without thinking—interrupting conversations, grabbing toys, or butting into other children’s activities. - Excessive Restlessness
The child is constantly on the move, unable to sit still for even a short while. - Strong Emotional Reactions
Joy, anger, or sadness can surface abruptly, and the child has difficulty calming down on their own.
Remember that individual symptoms don’t always indicate hyperactivity. The key is observation and the intuition of the parent or guardian, as well as a possible consultation with a child psychologist if certain behaviors seem to be hindering the child’s daily functioning.
Challenges and Opportunities in Working with a Hyperactive Child
At TEQUESTA, we have years of experience with children of very diverse temperaments. We know that for children with traits of hyperactivity, the following are particularly important:
- Clear Rules and Routines
A consistent daily schedule, repeated rituals (e.g., tidying up together after playtime, set mealtime) help the child predict what comes next. Thanks to this, they gain a sense of security, and the likelihood of a sudden change in activities is minimized. - Opportunities for Movement and Expression
A child with a high energy level needs occasions to release it. Varied physical games, exercise routines, or dancing to music allow them to channel accumulated emotions and later focus on tasks that require more attention. - Patience and Empathy
The key to working with a hyperactive child is a calm and understanding attitude from adults. At TEQUESTA, we strive to comprehend a Little One’s needs and emotions while also setting clear boundaries. Such balance provides the child with a model of how to respond to their own impulses in a socially acceptable way. - Skillful Praise and Recognizing Effort
A hyperactive child often hears in their environment that they “need to calm down” or “shouldn’t disrupt others.” Meanwhile, it’s important to notice and commend every, even the smallest, achievement. Reinforcing positive behaviors motivates the child to continue collaborating and builds their self-confidence.
Everyday Activity Suggestions
- Sensory Play
Tasks involving the senses can be particularly appealing to hyperactive children. Finger painting, transferring different materials (rice, groats, small pebbles), or playing with modeling compounds help them focus and develop creativity. - Outdoor Movement Activities
Frequently changing surroundings and playing in a park or preschool garden help channel excess energy. Besides standard chasing games and jumping, you can set up obstacle courses, balance beams, or simple coordination exercises. - Creative Artistic Tasks
Drawing, cutting, making collages, or molding clay require longer periods of concentration and develop manual skills. A hyperactive child may need a few minutes’ break to stretch, but it’s good to encourage them to return to the task to reinforce perseverance. - Short Learning Sessions Through Play
At TEQUESTA, we suggest alternating exercises like counting or reading with physical activities. For example, spend five minutes counting blocks, then five minutes hopping on one foot or dancing, followed by a short review—and repeat. This way, the child doesn’t feel overburdened.
The Role of Preschool in Supporting Hyperactive Children
In the international environment of TEQUESTA Preschool, an individual approach and close cooperation with Parents are crucial. Our staff, composed of teachers experienced in working with culturally diverse groups, learns from one another about effective educational methods. Together, we seek solutions that help each child discover their unique talents and understand the rules that apply in society.
- Setting Goals Together
Both at preschool and at home, it’s useful to define clear, short-term objectives (e.g., “trying to calm down before meals” or “completing one art project”) so that the child can see the effects of their efforts. - Consulting and Sharing Observations
Regular communication between teachers and Parents allows for an exchange of information about progress and any challenges. This way, you can jointly adjust your educational approach according to the Little One’s current needs. - Flexibility and Openness to Change
At TEQUESTA, we constantly strive to improve teaching methods to meet today’s challenges and the diverse characters of our children. If it turns out that a child responds better to shorter, more dynamic sessions, we adapt the daily schedule to ensure they feel comfortable and satisfied.
How to Support a Little One Day by Day?
- Stay Calm
A child with a great deal of energy may naturally cause frustration or fatigue in adults. However, remember that the caregiver’s calmness and self-control serve as a model for the child on how to react in stressful situations. - Avoid Labeling
Using statements like “You’re ruining the fun” or “You’re being naughty” can create feelings of guilt and lower self-esteem. It’s better to focus on specific behaviors (“I don’t like that you took the toy away from your friend”) and explain what alternative response the child could choose. - Provide a Space to Calm Down
Sometimes all that’s needed is a few minutes in a quiet corner with a favorite stuffed toy or book. During that time, the child learns to interpret signals from their body and mind, helping them better manage their emotions. - Consistently Recognize Progress
Even if the progress seems minor to an adult (e.g., five minutes of focusing on one activity), for the child it can be a huge achievement. Positive reinforcement builds the motivation for further effort.
Working with a hyperactive little one requires extra attentiveness, empathy, and flexibility in one’s actions. At TEQUESTA, we see every day that the right support, understanding, and providing a child with both care and clear guidelines can yield excellent results. A hyperactive Little One doesn’t have to be a “difficult” charge—often, they are a highly creative, bright, and passionate small person who simply needs more guidance to find their place in a dynamic world.
If you, as Parents, are wondering how to help your child better cope with their excess energy, we encourage you to contact our team. With many years of experience working with children of various “temperaments,” we’re happy to help choose methods that will be most effective for your situation. Together, we’ll ensure your child develops without unnecessary limitations and that every day becomes an inspiring adventure.
