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An analysis of data from the National Children’s Health Survey for about 4,000 children found that in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), participation in extracurricular activities is associated with a decrease in the severity of ADHD and less truancy. The investigators identified children aged 5 to 17 with ADHD and interviewed their caregivers, while examining data relating to the severity of ADHD assessed by parents and 2 measures of school functioning: the number of days missed school calls and the number of calls home from school. In assessing participation in extracurricular activities, investigators included all activities organized during the school week or weekend, including sports teams, clubs, and music or other lessons. The participation in extracurricular activities was as follows: 71.9% in at least 1, 28.3% in 2 and 18.5% in 3 activities. Analysis showed that any participation in extracurricular activities was associated with a lower likelihood of having moderate to severe ADHD and missing school days. Participation in extracurricular activities was not significantly associated with home school calls.
Thoughts from Dr Farber
This study does not prove that school activities help children with ADHD (those with mild ADHD may be more likely to participate in the first place), but it does make sense and, if they don’t disrupt the family, such activities should be encouraged. With the end of the pandemic, this can of course apply to all children, not just those with ADHD.
Reference
1. Lax Y, Brown SN, Silver M, Brown NM. Associations between participation in extracurricular activities, severity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and school functioning. J Dev Behav Pediatrician.2021; 42 (4): 257-263. doi: 10.1097 / dbp.0000000000000901
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