Why some kids get overexcited
By Kate Kelly
Expert reviewed by Molly Algermissen, PhD
Quick tips for managing overexcitement in kids
- Quick tip 1Check if it’s excitement or overexcitement.
Check if it’s excitement or overexcitement.Excitement and enthusiasm are great to see in kids. But when kids get overexcited, they can make people around them uncomfortable. They may get emotional or overwhelmed, and they can have a hard time calming down.
If you’ve ever been to a 4-year-old’s birthday party, you know that getting super-excited is something young kids do. They race around, shout, and push because they just can’t help themselves. You don’t usually see much of that behavior at a 10-year-old’s party. Still, there are kids who have trouble containing their excitement even at that age.
Some kids are naturally excitable, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. They’re curious, energetic, optimistic, and fun. Other kids may like being around them.
Once kids get overexcited, though, it can have the opposite effect. They may say or do things that are over the top. Other kids might think they’re “annoying” or “embarrassing” to be around. They may be left out or bullied and teased because they're different.
Kids need self-control to keep their excitement in check. They don’t all develop this skill at the same rate, though. So there can be a big difference in ability in the early years.
Many kids with ADHD struggle with self-control. They can also have trouble switching gears from one situation to the next.
Sensory processing challenges can also lead kids to getting overexcited. They get overwhelmed by input that comes in through their senses, which can make them overexcited.
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