Ahead of ADHD awareness month, experts provide insights and comments on ADHD in children and how playing outside is beneficial for their progress personally and academically.
Sovereign Play, an outdoor play equipment and surfaces provider, has researched how outdoor play can help children with ADHD and how it can affect them at school. They also provided advice and tips on ways in which schools and communities can support them.
To help continue raising awareness of ADHD, recent research has highlighted the impact of outdoor activities on children with the condition. For example, engaging with nature not only enhances focus and reduces impulsivity but also improves emotional regulation, which is crucial in the development of early years children.
ADHD in children can be identified through behavioural signs and patterns. Common indicators include persistent inattention, difficulty focusing on tasks, frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork, and organisational challenges.
Studies state that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was the second most viewed health condition on the NHS website in 2023, after COVID-19, according to figures compiled by NHS England, with 4.3m page views over the year.
Research has also shown that physical activity can significantly relieve anxiety, depression, and aggressive behaviour, as well as improve mindset and social problems in children with ADHD — as they are more likely to have deficits in both executive function and motor skills. Therefore, natural environments provide a stimulating yet calming backdrop, allowing children to channel their energy productively.
With experience in SEN and a long career in the education sector, Chris Gaskell, Area Sales Manager at Sovereign Play, commented: “Children with ADHD can benefit from structured and engaging play equipment and environments. Being active in a structured way will enable children to use their imagination and will help them to learn and control certain behaviours and impulses.
“Both themed and non-descript play structures, such as play towers and timber trails, will encourage children to create their own games focusing attention, whilst enabling them to develop positive social interactions with their peers.”
According to studies, the outdoors can provide a multi-sensory space for children, removing external distractions such as technology, and increasing the ability to stay focused. The relaxing effects can also impact behavioural patterns, including impulsivity, inattention, aggression, and reduced sociability. Children with ADHD have reported that engaging in outdoor activities incorporating nature makes their life “really good”, suggesting it is important for their life satisfaction.
Chris commented: “Creative and sensory areas such as mud kitchens, outdoor arts, and music areas with textured surfacing will also support children with their sensory impulses, helping to soothe and engage with positive behaviours.
“Having an environment without these calming and engaging play areas will often result in play that stimulates a child negatively, resulting in a lack of focus and negative behaviour in the classroom.”
The stereotypes of ADHD in children are often hyperactive behaviours, which may present in some children as excessive fidgeting, difficulty remaining seated or interrupting others. Every child has different behaviours, so it can be important to recognise any symptoms related to ADHD at an early age to implement the most effective strategies and support. It is more important than ever to ensure that children receive the assistance they need to thrive academically and socially.
Encouraging outdoor exploration and physical activity promotes better mental health and helps children foster social skills and creativity. Many communities and schools seek effective strategies to support children with ADHD by integrating outdoor experiences into their routines. This approach is effective for fostering resilience and well-being in young children.
