How to Get Kids to Focus: Helping Your Child Concentrate

Developing concentration and focus is essential for children, as it greatly benefits them in academics, sports, and other activities. However, it can be challenging to help children build these skills. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and strategies, including how to get kids to focus and some fun focus games.

Tappy Toes Nursery understands the importance of developing concentration and focuses in children. We have compiled this comprehensive guide to help parents foster these skills in their kids.

Understanding the Attention Span of a Child

Before we dive into strategies to improve child concentration and focus, it’s essential to understand the attention span of young children. A child’s attention span varies depending on their age and developmental stage. Here are some general guidelines:

• Infants (0-6 months): have a brief attention span, usually just a few seconds to a minute.
• Babies (6-12 months): can focus on an activity for several minutes, but their attention span is still relatively short.
• Toddlers (1-2 years): can focus for a few minutes on a single activity but are easily distracted and may need more time to sustain their attention.
• Preschoolers (3-5 years): can typically focus on an activity for 10-15 minutes at a time, but they may still struggle with distractions and have difficulty staying engaged for extended periods.

It’s important to remember that these are just general guidelines, and individual children may have shorter or longer attention spans than what is typical for their age group. Additionally, factors such as temperament, environment, and activity type can all affect a child’s attention span.

How to Improve Concentration and Focus in Child

1. Provide a Quiet Environment

Creating a quiet environment is one of the simplest things you can do to help your child concentrate. Children can quickly become distracted by noises, so finding a quiet space can help them focus better. If you’re at home, find a quiet corner or room where your child can sit and focus without distractions. If you’re out and about, avoid noisy places, such as restaurants or crowded places.

1. Break Tasks into Smaller Chunks

Young children can quickly become overwhelmed with long, complicated tasks. Breaking the task into smaller, more manageable chunks can help them stay focused. For instance, if you want your child to clean up their toys, you can break them down into smaller tasks, such as picking up blocks, dolls, cars, etc.

1. Make Learning Fun

Children learn best when they are having fun. Incorporating games and activities can help improve focus and concentration. For instance, playing games that require focus and concentration, such as puzzles, memory, and matching games.

1. Encourage Physical Activity

Physical activity is essential for improving concentration and focuses in children. It helps to release pent-up energy, which can help them concentrate better. Encourage your child to run around, play outside, or dance to their favourite music.

1. Limit Screen Time

Excessive screen time can have a negative impact on a child’s concentration and focus. Therefore, it’s essential to be mindful of your child’s screen time and ensure they engage in various activities to support healthy development. Set time limits for screen usage and encourage activities such as playing with toys, reading books, or drawing.

Focus Games for Kids

1. Simon Says

Simon Says is a classic game that requires children to listen carefully and follow instructions. It’s a great way to improve focus and concentration. One player is “Simon” and issues commands like, “Simon says touch your nose.” Only commands preceded by “Simon says” should be followed.

1. Red Light, Green Light

Red Light, Green Light is a fun and engaging game that requires children to focus and pay attention. One player is the “stoplight,” and the others stand behind them. The stoplight says “green light,” and players move towards them but must stop when the stoplight says “red light.” The first player to reach the stoplight becomes the new stoplight, keeping the game exciting.

1. Counting Games

Counting games are an excellent way to improve concentration and focus in young children. For example, you can ask your child to count how many cars they see on the road or how many red objects they can find in a room. These games help children stay focused and attentive.

1. Memory Games

Memory games, such as matching games, can help improve a child’s concentration and focus. These games require children to remember and match objects, which allows them to develop their memory and focus skills.

1. Follow the Leader

Follow the Leader is a fun game that requires children to mimic the leader’s actions. The leader can do different activities, such as hopping on one foot, clapping hands, or spinning around. The other players must follow the leader’s actions exactly. This game helps children develop their listening and focus skills.

Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Concentration and Focus

It is common for young children to struggle with concentration and focus. However, if your child consistently has problems with these skills, it may be a cause for concern. Here are some common signs that your child may be struggling:

• Difficulty completing tasks
• Easily distracted by noises or visual stimuli
• Trouble following instructions
• Forgetfulness
• Poor listening skills
• Lack of interest in activities that require focus

Dealing with a Child Not Focusing

It’s common for young children to struggle with focusing, but there are ways to address this issue:

• Identify the cause: Determine if there is a specific reason for your child’s lack of focus, such as hunger, tiredness, or a medical issue.
• Modify the environment: Adjust the setting to suit your child needs better, such as removing distractions or providing a comfortable workspace.
• Set realistic expectations: Remember that young children have shorter attention spans, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
• Be patient and understanding: Be patient and supportive as your child develops their concentration skills.

Encouraging Physical Activity to Improve Concentration and Focus

Physical activity can improve a child’s concentration and focus in several ways. It helps to release endorphins, which can boost mood and energy levels. Additionally, it can help increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain, improving cognitive function. Many physical activities are suitable for young children. Here are some examples:

• Running
• Jumping
• Climbing
• Dancing
• Playing tag
• Riding a tricycle or bike

How To Incorporate Physical Activity Into Your Child’s Daily Routine

Incorporating physical activity into your child’s daily routine can help to promote a healthy lifestyle and improve concentration and focus. Here are some tips on how to do it:

• Encourage active playtime at home or a park.
• Schedule regular outdoor activities, such as walks or trips to the playground.
• Use active transportation, such as walking or biking, when possible.
• Involve your child in household chores that require physical activity, such as gardening or sweeping.
• Limit screen time and encourage other activities like reading or playing with toys.

Making physical activity a regular part of your child’s routine can help them develop good habits and improve their ability to concentrate and focus.

Conclusion

Developing focus and concentration skills is essential to a child’s development, as it can help them succeed academically and socially. However, it can be challenging for parents to know how to support their child’s focus and attention best. Some effective strategies include providing a calm and quiet environment, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and incorporating physical activity into their routine. 

By understanding how to get kids to focus and implementing these strategies consistently, parents can help their children develop essential skills for success. At Tappy Toes Nursery, we strive to provide an environment that nurtures all aspects of a child’s development, including their ability to concentrate and focus.