A child’s activity level refers to how active your child is on a regular basis. Is your baby content to lie still or are they constantly wiggling? Can your child sit still and listen or do they have to get up and move around?
Less Active Child
Obviously a child who is less active is easier to deal with in most situations. You don’t have to worry about them running away from you or crawling out of the cart in the grocery store, like my daughter does. I envy parents with less active children as their children sit quietly at church. Less active children typically can pay attention longer and as a result do better in school.
On the other hand, less active children are less likely to be interested in organized sports and prefer quieter activities. You might have to encourage your less active child to get out and play. Childhood obesity might be an issue. As a parent you will need to provide more active things for your child to do. Take them to the park, play games like hide-and-seek and tag, or dance around. Encourage them to get up and move.
Active Child
The active child can be a challenge, because they are always well, active. The active child is constantly moving. They are full of energy and life. They are the movers and doers of the world. They often excel at sports and other high-energy activities.
The active child needs help channeling their energy. If left unsupervised they often get into mischief. When in a situation where quiet is needed provide a variety of activities for your active child. Be aware of their limits and don’t expect more than they can give.
You will need to teach your active child how to sit still, especially in school. If pent up energy is a problem talk to your child’s teacher. If the teacher expects a large amount of desk time without moving ask if it is possible for your child to get up and walk around the room. This will decrease interruptions and make it easier for your child to learn.
For more information about other personality traits read my blog “The 9 Temperamental Traits”.