Adventurous Dreaming Highflying Dragon: a full body game for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Abstract

Adventurous Dreaming Highflying Dragon is a full body-driven, game prototype for children ages 6--8 with a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It incorporates research evidence showing that physical activity can help improve ADHD-related symptoms. Physical activity is integrated with cognitively challenging tasks that may improve brain activity by encouraging goal planning and dedication. The current prototype includes three mini-games, each of which teaches skills with generalization potential. Players role-play a young dragon and repeat virtual tasks to gain mastery over real-life skills. Each activity includes game mechanics targeting ADHD diagnosis categories: specific hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention.