Many children and adults struggle with focus. Without proper focus, staying on task seems unattainable and discouraging because an assignments takes too much time to complete.
Difficulty staying on task could be as simple as kids are not being challenged enough. It’s easy to assume that students who lose focus do it because the lesson or concepts are too difficult to understand, but for many kids, it’s all too easy for them and they lose interest.
This is especially the case for children with ADHD, because they are already vulnerable to boredom.
So, why are your kids struggling with simple learning concepts like focus and what genius strategies can you use to help them stay on task?
#1 DISTRACTIONS
There are some simple solutions for limiting distraction during study time.
First, turn off the TV, remove all other devices, and designate a quiet study area. Experts also suggest that you avoid multi-tasking because it is too distracting. It’s so much easier for kids to stay on task when they focus on one thing at a time.
We recommend the Pomodoro Technique, which involves setting a schedule of study time interspersed with regular breaks to avoid boredom and distractive behaviors.
At school, talk to their teacher about alternative seating arrangements that could limit distractions. At Rockwood Prep we use this strategy along with noise canceling headphones to help our students focus.
#2 ANXIETY
Anxiety is such a beast when it comes to buckling down and focusing on tasks. Children with anxiety often feel as if no one understands their plight. You can help your kids by first identifying their anxiety triggers. Once you establish their triggers, you must validate their feelings and empathize with them.
- Listen to soothing music.
- Practice deep breathing.
- Look for, and celebrate, small wins.
One of the best strategies for overcoming anxiety is the 333 Rule. When in panic mode, ask your child to:
- Name 3 things that they can see
- Name 3 sounds that they can hear
- Move 3 different parts of their body.
This exercise helps children to focus on the reality of “now” instead of what may happen in the future.
#3 SLEEP ISSUES
Another reason why your child may be having problems staying on task is that they are not getting enough deep, restful sleep.
Research tells us that sleep deprivation can cause a lack of focus for everyone, especially for children with ADHD, who have even more difficulty with sleep. Sleep experts say that school-aged kids need 9-11 hours of sleep every night.
If your child struggles with getting a good night’s sleep, look at positive nutritional switches you can make to their food, the medications that they are taking, and consider creating a more optimum sleeping arrangement.
#4 DIFFERENT LEARNING STYLE
Children who learn differently that are in a classroom with a teacher or curriculum that doesn’t align with their way of learning will get bored, lose interest, and struggle with staying on task.
The most common learning styles as described in the VARK Model are:
- Visual
- Auditory
- Kinesthetic
- Reading/Writing
If you see a pattern of learning that indicates one of the styles above, inform your child’s teacher and read up on ways that you can help your student learn at home.
#5 LEARNING DISABILITIES
Learning disabilities are disorders that affect your child’s ability to read, write, understand math, use spoken language, and stay on task. The most common learning disabilities are dyslexia, dyscalculia, and oral/written disorders that affect language.
There are early warning signs of a learning in preschool-age children. They are:
- Late talking, as compared to children their age
- Trouble interacting with other children
- Poor ability to follow directions
- Impulsive behaviors
If you suspect that your child has a learning disability, get a private evaluation outside of the school system.
It’s important to remember that even though ADHD affect learning, it is not a learning disability, but rather neurodevelopmental disorder. Many children with ADHD also have a co-occurring learning disability.
Helping your kids stay on task can be easy if you remove distractions, reduce anxiety, improve their sleep habits, identify learning difference, and address strategies for managing learning disabilities. One step at a time. One day at a time.
This article for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute medical advice or a diagnosis.
