As a teacher and a mom, I see first-hand the problems that occur when children lack concentration skills. Impulsive behavior, inattention, forgetfulness, and problems learning can all be traced to this very common problem. Thankfully there are some concrete things you can do as a parent to help improve your child’s concentration.
Start with a healthy diet
If processed foods full of sugar, saturated fats, dyes and chemicals had no effect on children’s brain functions that would be more surprising than the fact that these chemical concoctions can alter a child’s behavior. Wean your child off processed foods while offering fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to see a big difference.
Follow set routines
Regular routines can take the guesswork out of how to spend the day. This leaves less room for distraction and boredom. If you do not have any routines in place, start by taking a good look at what you can control. Set up your schedule to suit your family’s needs. It may take some time to set the pattern, but once there is a rhythm to your days, focus will come easier.
Control the remote
Too much time spent in front of electronics of any kind, whether that means television, computers, or game systems, can contribute to a lack of concentration. Some of this is by default. When kids spend hours in front of these boxes, they are spending less time interacting with others and being active.
Get active
Even if your child is a hyperactive ball of energy, physical exercise can help with concentration. Instead of trying to control them into sitting still, let them run and play to help them deal with the energy surge. Making time to do mental exercise is also important. Play a board game, or teach your child how to play chess. If that is not your style, have them help make dinner.
Plan fun into the day
With all you may have to accomplish in a day it can be easy to fall into the all work and no play mode. But you can help your child’s ability to focus and set a better example when you take some time to plan something fun. Even if it is simply time to play catch in the backyard or take a bike ride to the playground, looking forward to something in the near future can make it easier to concentrate on the tasks at hand.
Talk to your child
What looks like a lack of attention could be confusion. A child’s imagination can turn normal situations into something to fear. Sensitive children can pick up on emotional clues and completely blow feelings out of proportion. Find out what is going on in their life and, with discretion, let them know why you are sad or out of sorts.
More by Sylvie Branch:
Family time capsules: Capture the magic of childhood
Dealing with Disappointment: Do’s and Don’ts to Help Your Teen
Hiking with kids: 10 fun tips to keep them moving
