ADHD and alternative treatments

Excercise

The Dore Achievement Centre got lots of media attention when it opened in South Africa, offering to help children from 7, as well as adults, with learning problems and ADHD.

The programme consists of a set of physical exercises that take just 10 minutes twice a day. The repetitive exercises are designed to stimulate the development of the cerebellum, the part of the brain which processes information, and controls coordination, eye-tracking, balance and movement.

Music & movement

Some believe that music and movement can be helpful to ADHD children. Liesel Grobler runs a programme called Be Sharp Beetles that uses music and movement to develop social, emotional, physical and intellectual abilities in children.

She says that ADHD children in particular benefit from a music programme because it stimulates both sides of the brain and a child’s problem-solving skills, improves language, listening, concentration and memory skills and increases happiness, self-esteem and relationships with others.

Resources

Liesel Grobler, Be Sharp Beetles - 082 922 9161
Dore Achievement Centre - www.dore.co.za
Contact ADHASA (ADHD/Hyperactivity Support Group) on (011) 888 7655 for more information