How to Improve a Child's Attention Span

All children have trouble focusing and paying attention every now and then, but if it becomes a constant problem, children can have trouble reaching their goals and succeeding in school. Spending positive time together setting up routines can help your child learn to focus and increase the length of time he can concentrate on an activity. Here are a few ways to help your child improve his attention span.

Things You'll Need

• Blank chore chart, poster board or white board
• Timer
• Stickers or other small rewards

Instructions

1. Set up a routine. A child is more comfortable when she knows what needs to be done and when it needs to be completed. Use a commercial chore chart or create one with poster board or a small white board to lay out morning and evening routines, so your child can focus on what needs to be accomplished. Include a way for her to mark off completed items and consider including a small reward, such as a sticker, to note finished routines. Be consistent with routines and rules, so your child always knows what to expect.

2. Set up areas for completing specific activities. Have a separate area for play time and a separate area for work time. Designate a space for homework, with appropriate supplies such as pencils, pencil sharpener, paper and calculator. A reading nook or chair with books, proper lighting and comfortable seating would be perfect for reading time.

3. 

   A timer provides a visual reminder of how long the child needs to focus on his work.

   Use a timer. If your child has trouble staying on task, use a timer to guide him. A timer gives the child an objective way to judge time and teaches him to work efficiently to beat the clock. A timer can also provide structure to work time and a way to gauge when it's time to take a break.

4. Encourage healthy eating, plenty of sleep and regular physical activity. A child can't focus if she's hungry or tired.

5. Offer lots of praise. Positive reinforcement will help your child build the self-confidence he needs to work harder to focus longer. Provide immediate positive feedback whenever goals are accomplished, so he can see the cause-and-effect relationship of focusing and achieving.

References

• Delano Elementary School, Delano, Minnesota: 35 Ways to Improve Your Child's Behavior and Attention Span
• Dr. Thomas Armstrong: ADD/ADHD Strategies