Attention and concentration are vital for learning. Children need to be able to focus on lessons, tasks and instructions in school to absorb information effectively. Improved concentration leads to better understanding, retention and application of knowledge.
Attention
Attention is the ability to focus and pay close and careful attention to something. It’s like zooming in on one thing and blocking out distractions. A child who can pay attention can stay engaged, follow instructions and complete their work more effectively. It helps them absorb information, learn new things and perform well in the classroom.
Concentration
Closely related to attention, concentration is the ability to stay focused on a task or activity for an extended period of time. A child can stay focused without getting easily distracted or losing interest. When a child has good concentration, they can stay on track with the task at hand.
These skills aren’t just important for academic success. Developing attention and concentration for kids helps them improve social skills too.
When children can concentrate and maintain focus, they can actively listen during conversations. They’ll be able to better understand, respond and contribute to the conversation. This helps build positive relationships and foster better social interactions.
If your child is having difficulty concentrating, there are several strategies you can try to help them improve:
Establish Routines: Consistent routines provide structure and help children know what to expect. Establish a regular schedule for activities such as homework, meals, playtime and bedtime. Consistency can help improve focus by reducing uncertainty and anxiety.
Minimise Distractions: Create a conducive environment for concentration by minimising distractions. Designate a quiet, clutter-free workspace for homework and other focused activities. Turn off TVs, electronic devices and other distractions that could divert attention.
Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large tasks can be overwhelming and make it difficult for children to concentrate. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and encourage your child to focus on one step at a time. Celebrate small victories to maintain motivation.
Use Visual Aids: Visual aids can help children stay focused and organised. Use charts, checklists and timers to help your child track their progress and manage their time effectively. Visual reminders can also serve as prompts to stay on task.
Provide Positive Reinforcement: Encourage and praise your child's efforts to concentrate, even if progress is slow. Positive reinforcement such as verbal praise, stickers or small rewards can motivate children to continue working on their concentration skills.
Encourage Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can improve concentration and attention span. Encourage your child to engage in activities such as outdoor play, sports or yoga to release excess energy and promote focus.
Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time can contribute to attention problems in children. Set limits on the amount of time your child spends watching TV, playing video games or using electronic devices and encourage alternative activities that promote concentration and creativity.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: If your child's difficulty with concentration persists despite your efforts, consider seeking advice from a pediatrician, school counsellor or educational psychologist. They can help identify any underlying issues and provide additional support or interventions as needed.
Remember that every child is unique and what works for one child may not work for another. Be patient and supportive as you explore different strategies to help your child improve their concentration skills.
At Pharmacy 4 Less your health and well-being are our top priorities. Allow us to introduce you to a selection of carefully curated products recommended by our pharmacists to help increase children’s concentration. Experience the difference at Pharmacy 4 Less, where your health is in good hands.
Ensuring kids consume a diet high in healthy, wholesome foods that are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats including omega-3 fatty acids are important to support brain development. The human body can’t produce omega-3, so it’s important that we are getting it from our diet, as these are vital for healthy brain function.
If your child is not getting enough from their diet, a high DHA Omega-3 Fish Oil supplement is an easy way to make sure they are getting enough Omega-3.
Try Nature's Way Kids Smart DHA 300mg 50 Soft Capsules (pharmacy4less.com.au)
Nature's Way Kids Smart DHA 300mg Triple Strength may help support your child’s brain & healthy learning, eyes & vision and healthy behaviour.
Other Benefits:
- 3x more DHA than other leading children’s DHA supplements
- Comes in a delicious orange flavoured burslet that kids love to take
- Can be taken from 12 months old children
- No added Sugar, No Artificial Colours
- No added Yeast, Gluten, Lactose or Dairy products
- Made in Australia. Australian quality guarantee
Directions for Parents:
Kids Smart DHA 300mg can be taken in two easy ways:
Children 1-4 years: Give one soft capsule daily. Children 5+ years: Give 2 soft capsules daily or as recommended by your healthcare professional.
Twist & Squirt: Simply twist or cut the tail and squeeze into your child’s mouth or onto their favourite foods.
Chew & Burst: Place the chewable capsule directly into the mouth and chew. The entire capsule is safe to be eaten.
Precautions:
Do not use if tamper evident seal is broken or missing. Not to be used in children under 1 year without medical advice.
Store below 25C. Always Read the label. Use only as directed.