Focus is the act of directing your attention or energy towards a specific task or subject, for example like focusing a spotlight on one area while blocking out distractions. It's normal for anyone to be distracted especially children, however focus is a skill that can be developed on. Here are our top strategies to help improve your child's focus in their everyday life.
1.Create a routine
Children flourish with routine. When they know what to expect, it helps them mentally prepare for upcoming tasks, reduces anxiety, and helps them focus. If you’re looking to create a routine during their school term-time, here are a few things you can focus on.
- Set Clear Expectations - Let children know what tasks need to be completed and in what order. Visual charts or lists can be helpful reminders.
- Consistent Timing - Whether it’s homework time, reading time, or playtime, keeping it consistent helps kids adjust and prepare for those moments mentally.
- Designate a Study Space - Have a quiet, distraction-free zone dedicated to work or study. This signals to your child that it's time to focus.
2.Limit distractions
Children are easily distracted, especially by technology such as a phone, an iPad, or the TV. Limiting these distractions is key to helping them stay focused. To help minimise distractions, here are a few things you can focus on:
- Tech-Free Zones - Designate areas of the house where technology isn’t allowed, like the dining room or study space.
- Break Tasks into Smaller Steps - Children can easily feel overwhelmed by large tasks. Breaking assignments into smaller, manageable chunks makes the task seem more achievable and keeps them on track.
3.Incorporate movement breaks
Sitting still for long periods can be challenging for children, particularly younger ones. Movement helps boost brain function and releases pent-up energy, making it easier for kids to focus afterward. Here are our tips!
- Set a Timer - Every 20-30 minutes, encourage short breaks for physical activity. These could be as simple as stretching, jumping jacks, or walking around the house.
- Active Learning - Incorporate physical activities into learning, such as counting while hopping or spelling while skipping.
- Mindful Movement - Yoga or slow stretching exercises can help children centre themselves and refocus their minds.
4.Teach mindfulness techniques
Mindfulness is not just for adults—kids can benefit from it too! Teaching mindfulness techniques helps children manage stress, regulate emotions, and improve their concentration skills. Techniques to practice include:
- Deep Breathing - Teach kids to take slow, deep breaths when they feel distracted or anxious. A simple breathing exercise—inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for four counts—can help calm and refocus the mind.
- Meditation - If they haven’t practised meditation before, My Little Morphée is a screen-free device that contains over 190 meditative stories for them to listen to, helping them to relax.
- Focus Games - There are plenty of fun games that enhance focus, like “I Spy,” memory card games, or puzzles. These can teach kids how to sustain attention over time.
5.Offer positive reinforcement
Kids are more likely to stay focused if they are rewarded for their efforts. Positive reinforcement can encourage them to work harder and stay on task. A few different ways you can offer this is through:
- Incentive Charts- Small rewards, like stickers, playtime, or a special treat, can motivate kids to stay focused and complete their work.
- Praise Efforts- Praise children not just for getting things right but for trying hard, even when tasks are difficult.
- Celebrate Small Wins- Acknowledge progress, even if it's incremental. This builds confidence and shows kids that staying focused leads to positive outcomes.
6.Sleep and nutrition
Kids need proper sleep and a balanced diet to function at their best, both physically and mentally. A tired or hungry child will have a much harder time focusing.
Ways to Support Sleep and Nutrition:
- Stick to a Sleep Schedule - Ensure your child is getting the recommended amount of sleep for their age. A consistent bedtime routine promotes better rest and improves attention.
- My Little Morphée - If your child is finding it hard to settle down before bed, My Little Morphée could be the answer. This sleep aid has been designed by sleep and relaxation experts to help your little ones to drift off to sleep. Don’t believe us? Try it for yourself!
- Hydration Matters - Encourage drinking water throughout the day, as dehydration can affect concentration and energy levels.
7.Visual learning
Many kids are visual or kinaesthetic learners, meaning they understand and retain information better when they can see or physically engage with it. Incorporating hands-on activities and visual aids can help children stay engaged.
- Use Charts and Diagrams - Visuals can help make abstract concepts more concrete. Use diagrams, charts, or videos to explain new ideas.
- Interactive Activities - Learning with building blocks, models, or experiments can hold a child’s attention longer than just reading or listening.
- Colour-Coding - Assign different colours to various subjects or tasks to create an organised, visually appealing system that grabs attention.
8.Encourage goal setting
Helping kids set goals gives them something to focus on and work toward. It teaches them responsibility, perseverance, and time management.
How to Help Kids Set Goals:
- Start Small - Begin with short-term goals, like finishing a chapter in a book or completing maths homework in 20 minutes.
- Make It Fun - Turn goal-setting into a game or challenge, where they can earn points or rewards for achieving their objectives.
- Track Progress - Use charts or journals to track how close they are to achieving their goals. This gives kids a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
Improving a child’s focus takes time, patience, and consistency. By creating structured routines, minimising distractions, and encouraging mindful practices, you can help set the foundation for better concentration. Remember, every child is different, so it’s important to experiment with various techniques to see what works best for your child.
