Stimulating the left brain and Brain Gym for ADD and ADHD

Compiled by Charné de Klerk

 

The left side of the brain is often described as the ‘thinking’ side of the brain. It is were we think in words and put thoughts together in sequential patterns. Children with ADD and ADHD are encouraged to stimulate this part of their brain, as it is thought to be weaker. By stimulating the left side of the brain, children perform better at school and learn how to engage the ‘thinking’ side of their brain. Below is a list of left-brain characteristics and activities to help support and stimulate the left side of the brain.

 

Characteristics of the left-brain:

  • Think in words
  • Linear processing
  • Excels at analysis
  • Sequential
  • Convergent
  • Intellectual
  • Objective
  • Rational
  • Goal-oriented
  • Explicit
  • Factual
  • Structured
  • Consistent
  • Detail

 

Activities to simulate the left-brain:

  • Solving crosswords or word search puzzles
  • Performing learned tasks

·        Language usage, both comprehensive and expressive

  • Problem solving
  • Recalling complex narratives
  • Researching a topic and compiling feedback
  • Reading a book and writing a book report
  • Projects involving keeping track of time and factual events
  • A trip to the library and looking for books on the child’s favourite subject
  • Debates in the class room or at home on the child’s favourite subject or topic

 

Brain Gym for ADD and ADHD

 

Brain gym is a series of movements and exercises that aim to strengthen the neurological links between all the parts of the brain.  It also helps to activate all the senses.  Below are some popular brain gym exercises that you can do at home or in the classroom.

 

While performing these exercises it is important to breathe calmly, deeply and rhythmically as this fills the body with oxygen and has a relaxing effect.

 

Brain buttons

Stand upright and place one hand on the navel. Use the index finger and thumb of the other hand to massage the two hollows under the collarbones gently. Breathe in and look to the right. Breathe out and look to the left. Repeat three times swap hands and repeat.

 

Earth buttons

Stand upright and place one hand on the navel. Bend the index finger of the other and place it in the hollow of the chin. Breathe in and look up. Breathe out and look down. Repeat three times. Swap hands and repeat.

 

Arm activation

Hold one arm up, straight up past your ear. Bend the other arm behind the head and hold the elbow of the straight arm in the hand behind your head. The arms should put pressure on one another.  First press the one arm forwards, backwards, to the left and to the right while the bent arm provides resistance. Now swap the arms and repeat.

 

Neck rolling

Stand upright with your eyes closed. Roll the head forwards to the right until the right ear is directly above the right shoulder. Now roll the head forward towards the left until the left ear is above the left shoulder. Imagine that your head is heavy. Keep the neck and shoulders relaxed.

 

Bibliography and references:

How to cope with ADHD a South African guide for parents, teachers and therapists.  By Helena Bester ISBN0798146451