Doctors prescribe attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications so freely, it’s literally becoming a joke. One memorable — and, as always, slightly inappropriate — episode of South Park pokes fun by showing doctors reading 8 year old children The Great Gatsby cover-to-cover and prescribing Ritalin if they cannot answer a very specific question about the book.

Although clearly comedic, the episode isn’t too far off the mark, and there is at least some truth in it. Namely, doctors prescribe too many children Ritalin. This over-prescribing is gets even more disturbing, especially given some of the side effects of ADD and ADHD medications. Thanks to these drugs, children may experience chronic headaches, discomfort, and notable tension. There is a better way. Consider safe, natural ADHD treatment for children instead. Here are some alternatives to prescription drugs.

Getting Some Fresh Air Can Have Health Benefits

It may sound like something you overheard at Woodstock in the 1960s, but going outside and getting some fresh air really can work wonders for your health. At least 11% of American children show symptoms of ADD and ADHD, and the great outdoors can do a great deal to treat their symptoms. Make sure any outings take place near green grass and leafy plants and trees. It matters. “After the walk in the park, children generally concentrated better than they did after a walk in the downtown area or the neighborhood area,” according to a study published in The American Journal of Public Health.

Is It Safe To Hypnotize Your Child?

Half of all children who suffer from ADHD also have sleeping disorders, or report trouble sleeping at night. Hypnosis is a safe, drug-free alternative to prescription medications, and it can help lull kids into a completely relaxed state. In other words, if the hypnosis doesn’t help them control their ADHD, it will, at the very least, help them sleep.