A hyperactive child can be best helped by giving him challenging activities appropriate to his ability and interests. Which option is correct?

• A. Remove activities
• B. Punishment
• C. Give him challenging activities that match ability and interests
• D. Quiet time with tasks

Answer: (C)

Engaging a hyperactive child works best when activities match what the child can do and what genuinely interests them. When tasks are challenging but achievable, the child stays mentally engaged, experiences a sense of mastery, and is less likely to act out because energy is being channeled into a purposeful activity. This balance keeps arousal at an optimal level—not too easy, not too hard—so attention can focus, effort can be sustained, and self-control gradually improves through successful experiences and immediate feedback. Matching activities to ability and interest also makes learning more enjoyable, which reinforces persistence and positive behavior.

Removing activities removes structure and can leave a lot of unstructured energy, which often leads to restlessness or misbehavior. Punishment tends to address the symptom after it happens rather than guiding the child toward better ways to use their energy, and it can erode motivation and the trust needed for learning. Quiet time with tasks might be too passive for a hyperactive child, failing to provide the active engagement and stimulation they typically need. So the approach that best supports focus, learning, and self-regulation is offering challenging activities tailored to the child’s abilities and interests.