Children with ADHD do what we call hyperfocus at times. This hyperfocus is actually zoned in concentration on something of interest. I can hear you asking what is she talking about? My child is so distractible that he has difficulty focusing. However, if you think about it, there are times when your child concentrates so intensely that when you ask him a question or tell him that dinner is ready, that he does not even answer you. This hyperfocus often happens when children with ADHD watch television or play a computer game.
So, is this hyperfocus a good thing? It is a good thing when he hyperfocuses on something that is interesting and productive, such as playing Legos or completing a puzzle. Most children play computer games, video games and watch television. However, the length of time that the child with ADHD does these activities may be damaging to him. When a child watches television, or plays a computer or video game for too long a time period, there is a danger over time that this insular experience may lead to him becoming clinically depressed. There is much research on this topic that you can check out.
Now remember, I am NOT saying that the child with ADHD should not watch any television or play video or computer games. I am also NOT saying that your child will definitely become depressed. However, I would set up a kitchen timer and after your child has been involved with these activities for one hour, I would make him stop watching television, or playing those computer and/or video games.
I know it is tempting if things are quiet for once in your house (we have ALL felt this way!) and you have to make dinner as well as take care of all of your other children’s needs, i.e., homework, etc., that when everything is quiet, you most likely would want to leave it as so. Children can certainly watch television as well as play video and computer games, but just be careful about how long they are actually playing.
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