Focusing children is not easy, and many parents struggle with it. Some parents may wonder if there is something wrong with their children; it might seem worrisome. Concentration problems are very common in children, but don’t worry. You can help your child develop focus by understanding what concentration problems in kids are.
Children with concentration problems: what are they?
Your child may be suffering from concentration problems if he cannot focus for long periods of time. His studies and other activities are also affected by this lack of focus.
What to do if your child lacks concentration
If your child is having difficulty concentrating, you may notice:
- Easily distracted
- Anxiety
- Loses things easily
- A lack of organization
- Inability to follow instructions
- Has difficulty with schoolwork
- Anger, irritability, or depression
- Having difficulty maintaining friendships
Kids’ concentration problems: what causes them
Concentration difficulties in children may be caused by the following factors:
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Difficult Tasks
If the tasks in question are too difficult or challenging, your child will not be able to focus on them.
What You Can Do About It
Break down big tasks into smaller ones so your child can find them easily and make sure they are age appropriate.
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Available Distractions
Children are naturally curious, but not very eager to sit and concentrate. Your wandering mind is more likely to be distracted by things like TV, radio, or what’s going on outside your window.
What You Can Do About It
Make sure the room your child is working in is free of distractions.
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Seek Attention From Parents
Negative behavior is a common way for children to get a parent’s attention, and not getting the job done or focusing properly are often ways to get a parent’s attention.
What You Can Do About It
Spend time with your child each day. This makes them less likely to lose focus when trying to help with schoolwork or other activities.
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Diet Matters
Poor diet and skipping breakfast are very common causes of poor concentration
What You Can Do About It
Stick to giving your child a well-balanced diet on a daily basis and ensure he does not skip breakfast.
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Not Enough Sleep
To be at their best, children need at least 8 to 12 hours of sleep each night. Of course, if you don’t get enough, you won’t be able to focus on the task at hand.
What You Can Do About It
Make sure your child has a good sleep schedule and doesn’t stay up late at night.Children sleep best around 7:30am, depending on their age.
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Personal Problems
Problems that stress children naturally affect their ability to concentrate. Children are most likely to be disturbed and have difficulty concentrating on their normal activities when problems occur at home.
What You Can Do About It
If you have a problem at home, try to keep it away from your children as it can have a very detrimental effect on them.
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No Motivation or Interest
Children cannot concentrate if they are not interested. Lack of motivation is another reason why you can’t concentrate. Lack of interest and motivation most commonly affects older children.
What You Can Do About It
Find ways to keep your child motivated and interested in the topic. If you can’t figure out how to do it yourself, consult an expert.
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Lack of Exercise
Without the right amount of physical activity, children become lazy, lethargic, and lose focus.
What You Can Do About It
Turn off the TV, put away your smartphone, and get off your computer. Take your kids. Ride a bike together, play tag, or walk the dog together. Exercise is important.
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Grief
A family loss, such as the death of a loved one, can affect your child’s ability to concentrate.
What You Can Do About It
Talk to your child or get counseling if needed. Help your child through difficult times.
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Mismatched Learning Style
Not all children learn the same. Some are literate, others are a little more practical.
What You Can Do About It
Find the learning style that works best for your child.
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Organisation Problems
With a disorganized workspace or notebook, your child will spend more time looking for the right material than paying attention to what is being taught.
What You Can Do About It
With a disorganized workspace or notebook, your child will spend more time looking for the right material than paying attention to what is being taught.
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Learning Difficulties
Learning disabilities such as ADD, dyslexia, and ADHD can cause a lack of concentration.
What You Can Do About It
See a professional for a thorough diagnosis and advice on what to do if your child has a learning disability.
Addressing issues that can have a big impact on your child’s concentration can go a long way. Solving concentration problems can be useful not only in school, but also in adult life, especially in building a better career.
