When should I take my child for an evaluation?

If your child is extremely restless, impulsive, unable to focus, or struggling at school or home, a developmental or behavioural assessment is recommended.

How do I know if my child needs evaluation?

If you notice delays in speech, social skills, behaviour, learning, motor skills, or if your child is not meeting age-appropriate milestones, an evaluation is recommended. Early assessment helps identify developmental needs and ensures timely intervention.

Do you provide therapy services to very young children?

Yes. Pranaah Child Development Centre provides early intervention and therapy services for infants and toddlers. Early support can significantly improve developmental outcomes.

What should I do if I do not know which therapy is most appropriate for my child?

A comprehensive assessment is the best way to determine which therapy your child needs. At Pranaah, specialists evaluate your child's strengths and developmental challenges and recommend the right intervention plan.

Assessment is a structured evaluation conducted by qualified professionals to understand a child's developmental, cognitive, behavioural, speech, and motor abilities. It helps identify concerns and guides the therapy plan.

How long does an assessment take?

Most assessments take 45–90 minutes depending on the child's age, cooperation, and the type of testing required. In some cases, multiple sessions may be needed.

What do I need to bring for the evaluation of my child?

Parents are advised to bring the child's medical history, previous reports, school feedback, birth details, and any relevant documents. This helps specialists make an accurate developmental profile.

Can I bring other children to the assessment session?

For best results, it is recommended to attend the session with only the child being assessed. A quiet, distraction-free environment helps the therapist conduct accurate evaluations.

Should both parents attend the assessment session?

Yes, if possible. Both parents attending helps provide complete background information and ensures that everyone clearly understands the findings and recommendations.

Do I get a report after assessment, and can I submit it to my child’s school?

Yes. After the assessment, a detailed report is provided. This report can be submitted to your child’s school, paediatrician, or other professionals for support and academic planning.

How long is the assessment report valid?

Reports are generally valid for 6–12 months depending on how quickly your child progresses. However, if there are major concerns or rapid developmental changes, an updated evaluation may be needed sooner.

Will the therapist discuss findings with parents after the assessment?

Yes. After the assessment, the therapist will explain the findings, discuss your child's strengths and needs, and recommend the best intervention or therapy plan.

What to Do If Your Child Is Hyperactive and Can’t Focus?

Q: Is hyperactivity normal in young children?

Some children are naturally energetic, but if the hyperactivity affects learning, daily routines, or social behaviour, it may require evaluation.

Q: Does hyperactivity mean ADHD?

Not always. Hyperactivity can also come from sensory needs, screen exposure, sleep issues, or developmental differences. A professional assessment helps identify the cause.

Q: How can I help my child focus at home?

Parents can reduce screen time, use short routines, break tasks into smaller steps, offer movement breaks, create calm spaces, and encourage hands-on activities.

Q: Can occupational therapy help with hyperactivity?

Yes. Occupational therapy helps children regulate sensory needs, improve self-control, and build attention through structured, child-friendly activities.

Team Pranaah
1 hour ago
4 min read

What to Do If Your Child Is Hyperactive and Can’t Focus?

A Parent’s Guide by Pranaah Child Development Centre, Kollam

It can be stressful when your child seems constantly “on the move,” struggles to sit still, or has difficulty focusing on simple tasks. At Pranaah Child Development Centre, parents often ask us:

“Why can’t my child sit in one place?”
“My child gets distracted easily—what should I do?”
“Is my child hyperactive or just energetic?”
“Does this mean ADHD?”

Hyperactivity and poor focus are common—especially in toddlers and young children. But sometimes, these behaviours may indicate the need for early support.

This guide will help you understand why hyperactivity happens, what you can do at home, and when to seek professional help.

What to Do If Your Child Is Hyperactive and Can’t Focus?

⭐ Is My Child Hyperactive or Just Energetic?

Active children are normal. They love running, jumping, exploring, and playing.Hyperactivity, however, looks different.

Hyperactive behaviour may include:

Constantly moving or fidgeting
Difficulty sitting at the table or during class
Running or climbing at inappropriate times
Talking excessively
Acting impulsively
Difficulty waiting or taking turns

If these behaviours interfere with learning, play, or daily routines, your child may need additional support.

⭐ Why Some Children Are Hyperactive or Unable to Focus

Hyperactivity and poor attention can be caused by several factors:

1️⃣ Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Not all hyperactive children have ADHD, but ADHD is one of the most common causes.

Signs include:

Very short attention span
Impulse control issues
Excessive movement
Difficulty following instructions
Forgetfulness

Early detection helps children do better at home and school.

2️⃣ Sensory Processing Differences

Some children become hyperactive because their bodies are seeking more sensory input.

For example:

Craving movement
Jumping or crashing into things
Difficulty sitting still because their body feels uncomfortable

Occupational therapy can help regulate their sensory needs.

3️⃣ Delayed Self-Regulation Skills

Some children simply haven’t learned to manage emotions, energy, or attention yet.With guidance and practice, they improve significantly.

4️⃣ Screen Time Overload

High digital exposure affects a child’s:

Focus
Attention span
Behaviour
Sleep

Too much screen time can mimic hyperactivity.

5️⃣ Sleep Issues

A tired child becomes restless, irritable, and unfocused.

6️⃣ Diet & Lifestyle Factors

Irregular meals, high sugar foods, or lack of physical activity can contribute to restlessness.

⭐ What Parents Can Do at Home to Improve Focus

Here are practical steps you can start today:

1. Reduce Screen Time

Limit screens and encourage outdoor play, reading, or hands-on activities.

2. Break Tasks into Small Steps

Instead of saying “Clean your room,” try:

“Pick up the toys.”
“Put books on the shelf.”
“Place clothes in the basket.”

Clear, simple instructions work best.

3. Use Short, Structured Routines

Children focus better when they know what to expect.

Examples:✔ Morning routine✔ Homework routine✔ Bedtime routine

4. Provide Movement Breaks

Let them jump, stretch, or run for a minute between tasks.Movement improves attention.

5. Practice “Focus Activities”

Great activities include:

Coloring
Sorting objects
Puzzles
Bead threading
Playdough
Yoga for kids

6. Create a Calm Environment

A quiet space with limited distractions can help your child sit and focus.

7. Praise Efforts, Not Just Results

Positive encouragement boosts confidence and motivates better behaviour.

⭐ When Should You Seek Professional Help?

Get an assessment if your child:

✔ Struggles to focus even during fun activities✔ Is extremely restless or impulsive✔ Interrupts constantly✔ Has difficulty following instructions✔ Is struggling at preschool or school✔ Has frequent meltdowns or emotional outbursts✔ Shows signs of sensory overload✔ Has sleep or eating issues affecting behaviour

Early screening helps you understand what’s really going on and how to support your child.

🏥 How Pranaah Child Development Centre, Kollam Helps

Our team offers:

✔ ADHD Screening✔ Behaviour Therapy✔ Occupational Therapy (Sensory Integration)✔ Early Intervention✔ Parenting Guidance✔ Speech & Language Evaluation (if needed)✔ Emotional Regulation Training✔ Classroom-readiness support

We help children develop:

Focus
Self-control
Social skills
Behavioural regulation
Academic readiness

Therapy at Pranaah is play-based, child-friendly, and personalised for each child.

📞 You’re Not Alone—Help Is Available

If your child is hyperactive or has trouble focusing, early support can make a big difference.

Pranaah Child Development Centre – Kollam, Kerala Holistic care for child development, behaviour, and early learning.

❓ FAQ: What to Do If a Child Is Hyperactive and Can’t Focus

1. Is hyperactivity normal in young children?

Some level of high energy is normal, but if it affects learning, behaviour, or daily routines, it may require evaluation.

2. Does hyperactivity mean ADHD?

Not always. Hyperactivity can also be due to sensory needs, screen exposure, sleep issues, or developmental differences.

3. How can I help my child focus at home?

Use short routines, reduce screen time, break tasks into small steps, encourage movement breaks, and create a distraction-free environment.

4. Can occupational therapy help with hyperactivity?

Yes. OT helps children regulate their sensory needs, improve body awareness, enhance attention, and manage behaviour.

5. When should I take my child for evaluation?

If your child is extremely restless, impulsive, has trouble following instructions, or struggles in school, a developmental or behavioural assessment is recommended.