Why some kids get overexcited

By Kate Kelly

Expert reviewed by Molly Algermissen, PhD

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  • Quick tip 1

    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.

  • Quick tip 2

    Use the three R’s: recognize, read, and respond.

    Calming overexcited kids requires some detective work. Start by recognizing when kids are getting overexcited, reading what cues could have tipped you off, and finding ways to respond the next time you see the cues.

  • Quick tip 3

    Encourage kids to look for it themselves.

    When kids are overexcited, they may not recognize that they’re reacting inappropriately. Encourage kids to monitor themselves to see if they’re being extra loud, if their bodies feel tense, and if other kid are moving away from them.

  • Quick tip 4

    Agree on a secret gesture or word.

    Have a signal that you can use to let kids know when it’s time to calm down and switch gears. For instance, you could snap your fingers twice to remind kids to switch from an outdoor voice to an indoor voice.

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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