Helping children improve their focus and attention can be challenging, especially in a world filled with distractions. However, with a few natural strategies, parents and teachers can support children’s ability to concentrate and engage more effectively. From brain-based activities to adjusting the learning environment, here are eight actionable tips to help improve focus and attention naturally.
1. Engage in Cross-Body Activities
Cross-body activities, where children move their arms or legs across the midline of their body, help to strengthen the brain’s ability to communicate across the left and right hemispheres. These movements activate both sides of the brain, improving coordination and focus.
Examples: Brain Gym exercises, cross-crawl activities, and games like patting opposite knees with each hand. You can also incorporate activities like throwing and catching balls across the body or drawing figure eights with arms extended.
Benefit: These activities help develop balanced brain function, making it easier for children to focus on tasks and improve their attention span.
2. Use Rhythm and Music to Support Brain Coordination
Music, especially rhythmic beats, can support focus and brain coordination. It engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously and helps regulate emotions and attention, making it easier for children to stay on task.
Examples: Try using background music with steady rhythms (without lyrics) during activities. Encourage children to move to the beat by clapping or tapping their feet. Structured activities like drumming or dancing can also improve brain coordination.
Benefit: Rhythm-based activities promote left-right brain integration and can calm children, helping them focus more effectively.
3. Adapt Teaching Approaches Based on Brain Dominance
Every child’s brain functions differently. By adapting teaching methods to match a child’s brain dominance (right-brain, left-brain, or limbic-centered), parents and teachers can improve engagement and focus.
Right-Brain-Dominant Children: Use patterns, stories, and examples. Answer questions like “why” and incorporate creative, visual elements.
Left-Brain-Dominant Children: Focus on details, sequences, and structure. Use lists, step-by-step instructions, and avoid long discussions on “why.”
Limbic-Centered Children: Offer choices and avoid pressure. Use quick distractions to help them reset when emotional responses arise.
Benefit: By tailoring teaching to match the child’s brain strengths, you can keep them more engaged and reduce frustration and overwhelm.
4. Create a Distraction-Free Environment
The environment plays a huge role in a child’s ability to focus. Reducing visual and auditory distractions can help children concentrate on the task at hand.
Examples: Use noise-canceling headphones, limit clutter in the workspace, and set up a quiet, designated area for focused activities. For younger children, try using visual timers to help them see the time remaining for a task.
Benefit: A distraction-free space minimizes sensory overload, making it easier for children to focus and stay on task.
5. Implement Short, Structured Breaks
Children, especially those with attention challenges, often struggle to sustain focus for long periods. Incorporating short, planned breaks allows them to reset and return to tasks with renewed focus.
Examples: Use a “Pomodoro” technique where children work for 20-25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Encourage movement during breaks, like stretching or walking around. This can also be combined with cross-body movements for added benefit.
Benefit: Short breaks prevent mental fatigue, increase productivity, and help children manage longer tasks more effectively.
6. Introduce Sensory Tools to Support Focus
Sensory tools like therapeutic lenses, weighted blankets, or fidget items can help children stay calm and focused. These tools provide the right amount of sensory input, which can be grounding and help children regulate their attention.
Examples: Allow children to use stress balls, fidget spinners, or tactile objects. Use therapeutic lenses or sunglasses for children sensitive to light, and consider weighted lap pads or blankets for children who benefit from deep pressure.
Benefit: Sensory tools help children self-regulate, making it easier for them to stay focused and feel comfortable in their environment.
7. Incorporate Physical Activity into the Daily Routine
Physical movement isn’t just good for the body; it’s essential for the brain as well. Daily exercise helps to improve circulation and increases focus, attention, and memory retention.
Examples: Schedule physical activity breaks throughout the day, such as a morning walk, stretching sessions, or jumping jacks. Activities like yoga, which emphasize focus and body awareness, can also be highly beneficial.
Benefit: Regular movement stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which is essential for attention and learning, helping children stay focused and energized.
8. Use Visual and Auditory Cues for Reminders
Providing gentle reminders through visual and auditory cues can help keep children on task without constant verbal prompts. This can be especially helpful for children who struggle to stay focused on their own.
Examples: Use color-coded charts or checklists for tasks, set quiet alarms or chimes for transitions between activities, and provide written instructions alongside verbal ones. You can also create visual schedules to help children anticipate what’s next.
Benefit: Visual and auditory cues reduce the need for repeated reminders and help children stay focused independently, improving their attention span over time.
Moving Forward: Supporting Your Child’s Attention Naturally
Helping children improve their focus and attention naturally doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating activities, tools, and small environmental changes, parents and teachers can make a significant impact on a child’s ability to concentrate and engage.
At Arizona Vision Therapy Center, we specialize in natural, brain-based strategies to help children reach their full potential.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at 520-886-8800 or visiontherapy@live.com.
By Amy Thomas, OD, FCOVD – Neurocognitive Optometrist
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