There are dozens of distractions vying for our attention at any given time, especially in the digital era. Many interactions are met with darting eyes as our attention spans progressively decrease. This decline of attention span is evidenced in the distractibility in our children.
Whether they’re diagnosed with ADHD or simply overstimulated, many kids are easily distracted and parents can be at a loss as to how to help. Decade2Connect’s Child Therapy services can provide professional support for children struggling with focus and attention.And as they begin to steadily integrate into the world, the ability to focus and complete tasks is crucial; If you’re looking for ways to help your child focus, below are some tips for you:
Understand
their Distraction
The first step in helping your easily distracted child is to understand what captures their attention. Is it the allure of screens, the surrounding environment, or internal thoughts? Identify the things that lead to distraction and engage in open conversations to comprehend their perspective. This knowledge will provide valuable insights into their world and guide your approach.
Create a Distraction-Free Environment
Designate specific spaces in your home that are free from obvious distractions. These areas can be dedicated to focused activities, such as reading, homework, or creative projects. Keep screens, toys, and other potential diversions out of these spaces to create an environment conducive to concentration.
Break Up Tasks
Large tasks can be overwhelming, especially when there’s no end in sight. A helpful way to increase focus is by breaking assignments into smaller, manageable chunks.
For example, 3 hours of homework is much more intimidating than 25 minute increments with a 5 minute break in between each one. This approach not only makes the task feel less daunting but also provides a sense of accomplishment as they complete each portion. There are free resources, such as the Pomodoro Timer (https://pomofocus.io/) that help with this.
Use Visual Reminders
Visual cues, such as checklists, can serve as effective reminders for your child to stay on track. Utilize calendars, to-do lists, or timers to help them manage their time and tasks.
Practice Mindfulness
Teach your child simple mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help manage their impulses and distractions. Breathing exercises, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation can empower them to regain focus when their attention wanes.
Limit Screen Time
Phones, television and video games are a common source of distraction. Set reasonable limits on screen time, and encourage your child to engage in offline activities that foster creativity, social interaction, and physical movement.
While these are all useful tips, they aren’t effective if they don’t become a habit. A lot of our society has slid into more intense distractibility over time and the best way to reverse this habit is by creating new rhythms. Lead by example and as you eliminate distractions in your own life, your child will begin to pick up similar rhythms.
For more tips on parenting, check out Decade2Connect today!
