Hyperactivity in children, teens, and young adults
“Hyperactive” is a word we often hear to describe kids who are full of energy. But true hyperactivity is more than just being energetic. It’s a pattern of behavior that can include constant motion, nonstop talking, jumping quickly from one activity to the next, and having a hard time sitting still or slowing down.
In young children, this might look like endless movement or excitement. In teens and young adults, hyperactivity may show up more as being disorganized, impulsive, or feeling restless all the time.
Hyperactivity often links to ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), a condition that can affect both children and adults. In some cases, hyperactivity has other causes, like anxiety or mood disorders.
Help for hyperactive children, teens, and young adults
Supporting a child with hyperactivity starts with understanding their behavior, not judging it. Try to stay patient, even when things feel chaotic and overwhelming. Create a predictable daily routine, offer encouragement, and give clear expectations to help your child stay on track.
It’s also important to make space for movement and activity. This isn’t just a way to “burn energy.” It’s a healthy outlet that supports focus and emotional regulation. Be mindful of your child's sleep and screen time and check in regularly about how they’re feeling.
If your child’s behavior becomes a source of worry or stress, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help.
Learn more about hyperactivity at your child’s age
Hyperactivity in early childhood (0–5 years old)
When it comes to hyperactivity in preschoolers, every child is different. Some are calm and quiet, while others are naturally active and busy. Many kids fall somewhere in between, and their energy levels may change from day to day. For toddlers, it’s normal to:
- Be easily distracted
- Be very active
- Have a short attention span
- Move quickly from one activity to the next
What can I do about hyperactivity?
If your toddler seems especially active, try these strategies:
- Stick to a daily routine
- Include time for active play
- Keep distractions to a minimum
- Offer healthy meals and snacks
- Make sure they get enough rest
Sleep is key for young children. Toddlers need 11–14 hours of sleep each day, and preschoolers need 10–13 hours, including naps. Getting enough rest can help:
- Improve focus
- Lower impulsive behavior
- Reduce hyperactivity
When should I be concerned about hyperactivity?
Because toddlers are naturally active and curious, it can be hard to tell what’s normal and what might be a sign of ADHD. Talk to your child’s pediatrician if you notice behaviors like:
- Aggression with other children
- Avoiding activities that require focus
- Constant climbing or unsafe behavior
- Difficulty playing quietly
- Fidgeting, squirming, or tapping hands and feet
- Frequent injuries from being overly active
- Nonstop talking or loud disruptions
- Not staying seated
- Trouble waiting their turn
Where can I get help for hyperactivity?
- Talk to your child’s pediatrician for expert guidance
- Contact Ohana at (831) OHANA01
Early diagnosis and support can make a big difference. If their pediatrician recommends an assessment, it may include a review of your child’s health and development, as well as input from caregivers and teachers.
If things are still unclear, more evaluations, like a neuropsychological or speech/language assessment, may be helpful. These tests can help identify whether ADHD, learning differences, or something else is going on.
Depending on your child’s diagnosis, treatment might include:
- Parent training to help manage behavior
- Stimulant or nonstimulant medications
Ohana uses a range of evidence-based treatments. We know that no two families are alike, so we’ll get to know you and your child through an evaluation. This way, we choose a care approach that works for your needs. Learn more about our treatment options. Learn more about our treatment options.
Hyperactivity in school-age children (6–11 years old)
As kids grow, they usually gain more self-control. But some high-energy kids continue to be very active, have trouble sitting still, or interrupt others, especially in structured settings like school.
What can I do about hyperactivity?
To help your child manage hyperactivity:
- Get them involved in sports or active hobbies
- Limit distractions at home
- Make sure they get 9–12 hours of sleep each night
- Offer healthy meals and snacks
- Stick to a daily routine
When should I be concerned about hyperactivity?
It can be hard to tell the difference between high energy and something more serious. With ADHD, symptoms typically last a long time and start to interfere with everyday life. By school age, kids with ADHD usually show signs in these areas:
- Inattention: Trouble staying focused or listening
- Hyperactivity: Always moving or fidgeting
- Impulsivity: Interrupting or acting without thinking
Pay attention to lesser-known symptoms of ADHD, too, such as emotional outbursts, forgetfulness, or zoning out.
Where can I get help for hyperactivity?
- Talk to your child’s pediatrician for expert guidance
- Ask your child’s school about support services they offer
- Contact Ohana at (831) OHANA01
Your child’s doctor may recommend an assessment that includes medical history, teacher input, and school performance. Further testing, like a neuropsychological or speech/language assessment, may help clarify the diagnosis.
Other causes of hyperactivity can include:
- Anxiety
- Behavioral challenges, like oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder
- Learning disorders
- Medication side effects
- Mood disorders
- Poor sleep or sleep apnea
- Stress at school or home
- Vision or hearing problems
If your child has ADHD, treatment may include:
- Parent training
- Stimulant or nonstimulant medications
Ohana uses a range of evidence-based treatments. We know that no two families are alike, so we’ll get to know you and your child through an evaluation. This way, we choose a care approach that works for your needs. Learn more about our treatment options. Learn more about our treatment options.
Hyperactivity in teens (12–18 years old) and young adults (19–25 years old)
As kids become teens and young adults, hyperactivity often looks different. They may not be constantly moving or excited. Instead, teens may seem restless, disorganized, impulsive, or distracted. These issues can be part of broader adolescent mental health signs and symptoms.
Teens with ADHD may also feel increased pressure from school and social expectations, which can affect their relationships and behavior. Their brains are still developing, especially in the areas that control impulses and decision-making. This development continues until around age 25.
What can I do about hyperactivity?
To support your teen or young adult:
- Break tasks into clear, manageable steps
- Encourage daily routines
- Help them get organized with lists, calendars, and designated spaces
- Limit distractions like screen time
- Make sure they’re getting enough sleep, usually about 8–10 hours for teens and 7 hours for young adults
- Offer healthy meals and snacks
- Plan ahead together
- Promote physical activity
When should I be concerned about hyperactivity?
Reach out for professional support if your child’s symptoms appear suddenly, affect daily life, or worsen over time. You may notice:
- Inattention: Trouble staying focused or organized
- Hyperactivity: Always moving or fidgeting
- Impulsivity: Interrupting or acting without thinking
Pay attention to lesser-known symptoms of ADHD, too, such as emotional outbursts, forgetfulness, or zoning out.
Where can I get help for hyperactivity?
- Talk to your child’s primary care provider for expert guidance
- Ask your child’s school or university about mental health services they offer
- Use an employee assistance program (EAP) if your child has access through an employer
- Contact Ohana at (831) OHANA01
A mental health professional can help figure out what’s going on. They may ask about your child’s health history and gather input from teachers, family members, or partners.
Other possible causes of hyperactivity include:
- Anxiety
- Behavioral challenges, like oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder
- Learning disorders
- Medication side effects
- Mood disorders
- Sleep issues
- Stress at school, work, or home
- Substance use issues
Depending on your child’s diagnosis, their treatment plan might include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to change negative thoughts and behaviors
- Medication
- Sleep studies
- Support for substance use, if needed
Ohana uses a range of evidence-based treatments. We know that no two families are alike, so we’ll get to know you and your child through an evaluation. This way, we choose a care approach that works for your needs. Learn more about our treatment options.
