A common complaint nowadays is that children do not pay attention to the task at hand long enough to complete it, or to be able to retain what is being said or taught.
Some children are distracted by internal and others external stimuli, and that prevents them from concentrating.
The following strategies can improve your child's focus:
Repeat the instruction or activity as this challenges the child's brain which strengthens mind-body connections. Then ask the child to repeat it back to you.
Break instructions and tasks into small steps and make sure they are carried out. Do not overload with to many instructions.
Allow the child to play with regular toys. Gadgets actually reduce attention span and memory power of children, so use them sparingly.
Play memory card games and use picture puzzles where the goal is to search for something wrong, or the differences. Older children can play games like UNO and do cross word puzzles.
Play statue as just sitting or standing challenges your child not to move or fidget.
Create a distraction free environment with music if it helps your child focus and soft lighting.
Eat healthy foods- avoid sugar rich foods which make them sluggish. Food rich in protein such as almonds, eggs, lean meat, fruit and vegetables is best.
A power nap after school of 20 minutes helps increase concentration. Make sure they get a good nights sleep. ( They should be getting 9 hours).
Understand your child's method of learning. Some are visual learners, others auditory and some need to be able to touch and feel subject matter to understand and process information optimally.
Reading, drawing and writing it down can help older learners concentrate.
Set up a reward system in the form of praise or a sticker chart. This builds self-confidence as you are talking about strengths and not just weaknesses.
Allow time for distraction as your child needs to vent out their energy.
Try deep breathing, simple relaxation and mindfulness to assist with focusing.
When a child struggles to focus it is hard to listen to, remember and follow through on a direction, so be patient and encouraging at all times.
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