Whether it’s difficulty completing homework, getting distracted in the middle of chores, or zoning out in class, you might notice your tween or teen struggling to stay focused. It’s a common problem that’s only made worse by ever-encroaching technology. That’s why we consulted the experts for these tips on how to improve focus in kids.
Why do kids have trouble focusing?
There are a number of reasons why a child may have difficulty getting or staying focused on a task.
The demand is too great. The part of the brain responsible for attention is still developing in children. When a child loses focus, consider if they’re simply being expected to do more than they’re developmentally capable of.
Technology. Research shows that excessive screen time has a profound negative impact on concentration and focus in children. While devices can be the cause of attention issues, they can also be a symptom. A child who struggles with attention fatigue may turn to a screen as a way to give their brain a break.
What are some signs that my child is struggling to focus?
Aside from the more obvious signs, like squirming in their seat or abandoning their homework, inattentiveness can also fly under the radar in some kids.
According to Anna Marcolin, LCSW, psychotherapist, life coach, and host of the globally top-ranked mental health and wellness podcast The Badass Confidence Coach, here are some less obvious signs your child may be struggling with focus:
“Micro-avoidance” behaviors. These behaviors are seemingly innocent actions used as a brief escape from mental overload. For example, frequent bathroom trips, repeatedly sharpening pencils, and a sudden need for a snack are all symptoms of inattentiveness.
Consistentissues with time perception. According to Marcolin, children with attention issues often struggle with differentiating between short and long durations of time.
Difficulty with transitions. Marcolin says that“quick emotional reactions…when transitioning between activities [is another] subtle sign” a child struggles with focus.
Quiet daydreaming. There’s a difference between a healthy imagination and avoiding tasks, particularly “quiet daydreaming, particularly in girls, who might still be achieving good grades despite underlying attention fatigue,” says Marcolin.
How can I talk to my child about their focus?
“When talking to your child about their focus challenges, aim to open the conversation in a supportive and understanding way,” says Marcolin. Here are her tips for talking to your child about their attention struggles:
Timing is important. Choose a calm time to talk to your child.
Frame the problem externally. Separate the problem from the child by saying something like, “I’ve noticed focusing has been tricky lately. Shall we figure out why together?”
Be curious. Ask your child what tasks feel most difficult for them to concentrate on and if they’re already using any strategies to try to improve their focus.
Connect to a positive. Draw a line to something your child enjoys and excels at. For instance, you might point out that the creativity and focus they use when playing Minecraft or making art is the same spark that can be channeled to focus on an area where they’re struggling.
Work together to find solutions. Collaborate with your child to design one small strategy to try for the week so your child feels involved and empowered, rather than blamed and shamed.
How can I help my child focus?
Marcolin points to these simple, evidence-based strategies for helping kids sharpen their focus:
Movement-based “brain resets.” Every 30 to 45 minutes, build in five minutes of physical activity, such as jumping jacks or a short walk.
Break down tasks. Help your child break their homework or other tasks into smaller, manageable chunks using a visual timer like the Pomodoro Technique.
Proper food and hydration. Ensure your child has protein-rich snacks and stays hydrated.
Sleep. Encourage your child to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Tech boundaries. Set guidelines around tech use, such as no social media during homework time or no devices until chores are complete. Consider writing them into a device contract.
Rewards. Try a points system where your child is rewarded for sustained periods of attention, as these little dopamine boosts can help keep motivation up. For a tech-motivated child, this could mean ten minutes on their device.
When to seek professional help
Sometimes, a child’s attention issues rise to a level where outside intervention is necessary. Marcolin points to these signs that a professional assessment is warranted:
Inattention that lasts six months or more, disrupts two or more settings, and persists despite good sleep, proper nutrition, and limited screen time.
Sudden grade drops.
Plummeting self-esteem.
Social fallout.
Extreme emotional volatility.
Risk-laden impulsivity, such as accidents or aggression.
A strong family history of ADHD, mood disorders, or learning differences.
In short
Technology distractions, stress, and mental health issues are some of the reasons tweens and teens might struggle with attention. Parents can help their distracted child by collaborating with them to identify the problem and develop healthy coping strategies.
If your child is spending a lot of time on their phone or tablet, stay involved and understand what content they’re consuming. BrightCanary is the best way for parents to monitor their children’s activities on Apple devices. Download the app and start your free trial today.
