Sometimes children struggle to pay attention in school. As parents we often say, “Focus!” “Listen!” or “Pay attention!” What we need to know is that often these words don’ t mean anything to our kids. They honestly feel that they are paying attention or else they simply do not know how to do it. Here is a suggestion:
Tell your child the definition of listening and paying attention. The definition is: “Being able to repeat back that which the messenger has said.” Tell your child that if they can’t repeat back in the message in their own words, they have not comprehended or “listened to” what they were supposed to. Practice this at home by giving your child small messages to repeat back. You can do this by describing something that you did that day, or simply describe an item. Then have your child practice repeating the message back. Next, have your child say a message for you to repeat back.
To help your child to focus while doing homework, here are some tips:
o Set a timer during homework time for each assignment. Have your child be involved with how much time should be set. For example, ask your child how long he/she thinks it will take him to complete his math or writing assignment.
o Give 10-15 min. breaks between assignments. This is very important! During breaks make sure that your child does something that relaxes him/her.
Good break ideas are:
..talk to a friend
..draw or create something
..play basketball
Not so good break ideas are:
..watching TV
..computer/video games
(These things are often difficult for your child to leave once started.)
o Give lots of praise when assignments are accomplished.
o Never give more than two things to do at once. Have the student repeat back any directions given.
o Help the student break larger tasks into smaller ones. (This will help your child not to feel overwhelmed!)
o Give choices as much as possible.
o Music(without lyrics) while studying often helps them to focus.
I am very interested to hear what other tips you would like to hear. Please e-mail me at Stephanie@letslearnnow.com. Together we can promote Learning for Life!
