Today we will talk about focus and concentration. Due to a lack of concentration, children find it difficult to focus on their work. This problem is mostly seen in children who struggle with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), Autism, SPD (sensory processing disorder), or Learning Disorders. Lack of attention impacts not only their daily routine but their academics as well.
Table of Contents
Factors that reduce focus and concentration
1. Wrong use of screen time
- If your child spends too much screen time watching cartoons or fast-moving videos, it affects his concentration.
- Limit screen time to 5-10 minutes and ensure they watch meaningful content.
2. Insufficient Sleep
- Children aged 6-10 years need 9-11 hours of sleep. Lack of sleep increases issues of hyperactivity and low concentration.
3. Overstimulation in Environment
- Too loud noises or crowded environments disturb children’s attention.
- Provide children with a calm and distraction-free environment.
Tips to Improve Focus and Concentration
1. Simple and Engaging Activities
- Give children activities of their level, like matching games or puzzles. – To keep children interested in an activity, make it simple and fun.
2. Use Short Commands
- Whenever you give a task to the child, explain it in short and clear sentences.
- If the task is complex, explain it by breaking it into small steps.
3. Physical Stability Activities
- If the child is restless, let them use fidget spinners or stress balls.
- Ensure that the child’s chair and table are according to their height.
4. Memory-Building Games
- Games like number sequencing or category matching improve the child’s working memory and concentration.
- Jigsaw puzzles or pattern-making activities are also helpful.
5. Use Visual Timers
- Set a fixed time for activities and tell the child through the timer when the work has to be completed.
- This gradually helps the child improve his focus and reduces distractions.
6. Involve him in Daily Routine Tasks
- Give the child small tasks like laundry, folding clothes, or setting the table.
- These activities improve the child’s organizational skills and executive functioning.
Specific Activities for Improving Focus and Concentration
1. Focus Games
- Look at a figure carefully and make the same figure or print it for your child. – Filling in missing letters also helps the child build focus.
2. Motor Activities
- Block-building games and replicating patterns improve the cognitive flexibility of the child.
3. Story Sequencing
- Show the child pictures and ask him to arrange them in sequence.
- This activity enhances the reasoning and prediction skills of the child.
Key Takeaways
- Concentration does not develop overnight, patience and consistent practice are important.
- Keep the environment distraction-free and plan activities according to the child’s interest.
- Start with simple activities and gradually increase the difficulty level.
With regular practice and support, the child will improve his focus and learning will also become easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Factors reduce focus and concentration in children with Autism and ADHD?
Some factors that reduce focus and concentration in children with autism and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are:
1. Wrong or improper use of screen time.
2. Too loud noises or crowded environments disturb children’s attention.
3. Insufficient Sleep.
4. Aggressive behavior or harsh parenting approaches
Tips that help to improve focus and concentration in children with Autism and ADHD?
Some Tips that help to improve focus and concentration in children with Autism and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are:
1. Ensure they get enough sleep.
2. Encourage regular physical exercise.
3. Collaborate with teachers and parents to address challenges.
4. Provide a healthy, balanced diet.
5. Include daily brain-calming exercises.
6. Allow adequate rest periods.
7. Engage them in memory-building games and activities.
