@article{ref1,
title="Pilot Physical Activity Intervention Reduces Severity of ADHD Symptoms in Young Children",
journal="Journal of attention disorders",
year="2013",
author="Smith, Alan L. and Hoza, Betsy and Linnea, Kate and McQuade, Julia D. and Tomb, Meghan and Vaughn, Aaron J. and Shoulberg, Erin K. and Hook, Holly",
volume="17",
number="1",
pages="70-82",
abstract="Objective: Physical activity associates with mental health and neurocognitive function, showing potential for addressing ADHD symptoms. As a preliminary assessment of this potential, the authors piloted a before-school physical activity intervention for young children. Method: Seventeen children (Grades K-3) exhibiting four or more hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms on the Disruptive Behavior Disorders Rating Scale (Pelham, 2002) completed about 26 min of continuous moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily over eight school weeks. The authors administered cognitive, motor, social, and behavioral functioning measures at pre- and postprogram, assessed response inhibition weekly, and coded negative behaviors daily. Results: Several measures showed significant or marginally significant change over time (effect size = 0.35-0.96) with additional measures showing meaningful effect size values (≥ 0.20). Response inhibition effects were most consistent. Most participants (64% to 71%) exhibited overall improvement according to postprogram parent, teacher, and program staff ratings. Conclusion: Physical activity shows promise for addressing ADHD symptoms in young children.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1087-0547",
doi="10.1177/1087054711417395",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1087054711417395"
}