In today's world, keeping children focused and attentive has become a major challenge for parents. Focusing skills in children can be negatively affected by the widespread use of technology, fast-paced lifestyle and intensive education programmes. However, it is possible to improve focusing skills in children with the right strategies. Here are some effective methods that parents can apply:
1. Establish a Regular and Structured Daily Routine
In order to develop focusing skills in children, it is very important that they are in a certain routine. Children feel more secure when they are in a certain routine and this helps them to focus their attention. Adding play, study and rest periods to their daily schedule can increase their focusing time. For example, setting a 30-minute reading time after breakfast in the morning will support your child's focusing skills.
2. Reduce Environmental Stimuli
It is important to minimise distractions for children to develop focusing skills. It will be useful to keep electronic devices such as television and tablets switched off while studying or concentrating on an activity. Also, keeping the workspaces tidy and simple helps children to focus more easily.
3. Take Short and Frequent Breaks
Activities that require prolonged attention can be challenging for children. Therefore, taking short and frequent breaks can prevent them from being distracted. For example, taking a 5-minute break after studying for 20 minutes can help your child work more efficiently. Doing light exercises or short walks during the break also helps them to renew their energy.
4. Use Active Learning Techniques that Increase Focusing Skills in Children
Children can focus more easily with active learning methods. For example, taking notes with coloured pencils while studying, making use of visual materials or turning the subjects learned into a game can improve children's focusing skills. In addition, interactive educational applications and games can also improve children's focusing skills.
5. Make Time for Physical Activities
Physical activity is important to increase focusing skills in children. It helps children to release their energy and relax mentally. Regularly playing sports, playing outdoors or doing simple exercises helps children to focus better. Also, thanks to physical activities, children's self-confidence increases and they can express themselves better.
6. Develop Healthy Eating Habits
Nutrition has a great influence on children's ability to focus. A balanced and healthy diet supports brain function and prolongs attention spans. Especially consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals improves children's mental performance. Consuming foods such as whole grain bread, eggs and fruit for breakfast helps them start the day energetically.
7. Provide Positive Feedback and Support
It is important to receive positive feedback for children to develop their focusing skills. Recognising their achievements and praising their efforts increases their motivation and reinforces their self-confidence. Also, being patient and understanding reduces children's stress levels and allows them to focus more comfortably.
Developing focusing skills in children is a process that requires time and patience. By applying the methods mentioned above, you can increase your child's attention span and support their academic success. Remember, it is important to adopt flexible and personalised approaches, taking into account that each child is different and has unique needs.