Do you find that your student is struggling to pay attention? Are they especially distracted when presented with a challenging task? Getting through that threshold can be a difficult endeavor. Here are some tips to support and help cultivate a focused student. 

Incorporate Some Physical Activity

Have your student engage in some form of physical activity for at least 15 minutes before beginning a challenging task. Some activities can include stretching, bouncing a ball, or playing outdoors. By having your students play before, they will get their wiggles out and be focused on the activity ahead.  

Understanding Attention

Take time to show how paying attention looks and means. Allow students to periodically take breaks to assess if they are paying attention. By being self-aware of their attention, students will understand what attention looks like and will be aware when they are beginning to lose focus.  

Attention Time Frame

It is important to remember that a student’s focus may need to be adjusted. A student who is six years old may be expected to pay attention for 12 to 30 minutes. Attention time frames can be broken up into periods of work and break. Incorporate engaging materials, and ask for feedback from your student. For example, ask them questions or have them read out loud.  

Limit Distractions

Having a cluttered environment can be an excellent distraction for many students. Their brains may wander to the clutter and have difficulty reigning back in. Ensure that their workspace is free of clutter or any other distraction to allow the student to focus on their work. 

Memory and Focus Go Hand in Hand

There is a correlation between memory and focus. In saying that, there are fun ways to support and grow a student’s memory. Playing memory games will increase their attention and allow them to focus on challenging tasks. Here are examples of memory games that you can play with your students: I-Spy, Simon Says, Picture Bingo, Draw a Word on My Back, or Matching Cards. You can also incorporate online memory games. Just remember to limit your student’s time online! The website Safe Kid Games has some fun memory games for students. 

The Importance of Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for a focused student. Many students who exhibit focus difficulties are the result of having problems sleeping. In supporting your students in cultivating their focus, it is essential to have a bedtime routine. This bedtime routine can include reading a book, stretching, having a warm glass of milk, or listening to calm music. 

Not all students are the same, and some attention strategies may work better for some than others. It is essential to keep in mind that you can encourage and support your student in growing their focus and concentration every day!

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Optimus Learning School is a tutoring center in Brea serving Fullerton, Placentia, and Yorba Linda. Since 2008, we have been helping students from kindergarten through high school achieve their academic goals through our various programs such as our home school, after school program, homework help, and private tutoring. We also offer seasonal programs such as our popular summer camp. There are many enrichment classes year-round, such as coding, STEM, piano, and art which will help shape creative and well-rounded students. Are you ready to kickstart your child’s education? Send an inquiry form or contact us today!